Power delivery device, ac adapter, ac charger, electronic apparatus and power delivery system

ABSTRACT

A PD device comprises: a DC/DC converter disposed between an input and a VBUS output; a primary-side controller configured to control an input current of the DC/DC converter; a secondary-side controller coupled to a plurality of control inputs, the secondary-side controller configured to executed a signal conversion of control input signals of the plurality of the control inputs, and configured to feedback the control input signals subjected to the signal conversion to the primary-side controller, wherein the primary-side controller varies an output voltage value and an available output current value (MAX value) of the DC/DC converter by controlling the input current of the DC/DC converter on the basis of the control input signal fed back from the secondary-side controller. The PD device is capable of switching with respect to the plurality of apparatuses and controlling the output voltage value and the available output current value (MAX value).

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This is a continuation application (CA) of PCT Application No.PCT/JP2016/052715, filed on Jan. 29, 2016, which claims priority toJapan Patent Application No. P2015-032985 filed on Feb. 23, 2015 and isbased upon and claims the benefit of priority from prior Japanese PatentApplications No. P2015-032985 filed on Feb. 23, 2015 and PCT ApplicationNo. PCT/JP2016/052715, filed on Jan. 29, 2016, the entire contents ofeach of which are incorporated herein by reference.

FIELD

Embodiments described herein relate to a Power Delivery device (PDdevice), an Alternating-Current (AC) adapter, an AC charger, anelectronic apparatus, and a Power Delivery system (PD system).

BACKGROUND

Conventionally, there have been provided Direct Current (DC) outletswhich can intercommunicate between terminal devices and power linecarrier communication networks supporting telecommunications standardswith a Power Delivery (PD).

There are Power over Ethernet (PoE) technology and Universal Serial Bus(USB) technology as a Power Delivery technology (PD technology) usingdata lines.

As the USB technologies, there are USB 2.0 Standard up to maximum supplypower of 2.5 W, USB 3.1 Standard up to maximum supply power of 4.5 W,and Battery Charging (BC) Revision 1.2 up to maximum supply power of 7.5W according to the Power Delivery level (PD level).

Moreover, a USB Power Delivery (USB PD) Specification is compatible withexisting cables and existing connectors, and coexists also with the USB2.0 Standard, the USB 3.1 Standard, and the USB-BC Revision 1.2. In sucha specification, values of the charging current and voltage isselectable within a range of voltage 5V-12V-20V and a range of current1.5 A-2 A-3 A-5 A, and the USB electric charging and power transmissioncan be achieved to be 10 W, 18 W, 36 W, 65 W, and the maximum of 100 W.

DC/DC converters have been used as a power source for achieving such aPD. There are a diode rectification system and a synchronousrectification method in the DC/DC converters.

SUMMARY

The embodiments provide a PD device, an AC adapter, an AC charger, anelectronic apparatus, and a PD system, each capable of switching withrespect to a plurality of apparatuses, and each capable of controllingan output voltage value and an available output current value (MAXvalue).

According to one aspect of the embodiments, there is provided powerdelivery device comprising: a DC/DC converter disposed between an inputand a VBUS output; a primary-side controller configured to control aninput current of the DC/DC converter; and a secondary-side controllercoupled to a plurality of control inputs, the secondary-side controllerconfigured to executed a signal conversion of control input signals ofthe plurality of the control inputs, and configured to feed back thecontrol input signals subjected to the signal conversion to theprimary-side controller 30, wherein the primary-side controller variesan output voltage value and an available output current value of theDC/DC converter by controlling the input current on the basis of thecontrol input signal fed back from the secondary-side controller.

According to another aspect of the embodiments, there is provided powerdelivery device comprising: a DC/DC converter disposed between an inputand a VBUS output; a primary-side controller configured to control aninput current of the DC/DC converter; a secondary-side controllercoupled to a control input, the secondary-side controller configured toexecuted a signal conversion of a control input signal of the controlinput, and configured to feed back the control input signal subjected tothe signal conversion to the primary-side controller; and an outputcapacitor configured to couple the secondary-side controller and theVBUS output to each other, wherein the primary-side controller varies anoutput voltage value and an available output current value of the DC/DCconverter by controlling the input current on the basis of the controlinput signal fed back from the secondary-side controller.

According to a further aspect of the embodiments, there is provided anAC adapter comprising the above-mentioned power delivery device.

According to a still further aspect of the embodiments, there isprovided an AC charger comprising the above-mentioned power deliverydevice.

According to a yet further aspect of the embodiments, there is providedan electronic apparatus comprising the above-mentioned power deliverydevice.

According to the embodiments, there can be provided the PD device, theAC adapter, the AC charger, the electronic apparatus, and the PD system,each capable of switching with respect to the plurality of theapparatuses, and each capable of controlling the output voltage valueand the available output current value (MAX value).

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a schematic circuit block configuration diagram showing a PDdevice according to basic technology.

FIG. 2 is a schematic circuit block configuration diagram showing a PDdevice according to a first embodiment.

FIG. 3 is a schematic circuit block configuration diagram showing a PDdevice according to a modified example 1 of the first embodiment.

FIG. 4 is a schematic circuit block configuration diagram showing a PDdevice according to a modified example 2 of the first embodiment.

FIG. 5 is a schematic block configuration diagram showing a power outputcircuit applicable to the PD device according to the first embodiment.

FIG. 6 is a schematic circuit block configuration diagram showing a PDdevice according to a modified example 3 of the first embodiment.

FIG. 7 is a schematic circuit block configuration diagram showing a PDdevice according to a modified example 4 of the first embodiment.

FIG. 8 is a schematic circuit block configuration diagram showing a PDdevice according to a modified example 5 of the first embodiment.

FIG. 9A is a schematic diagram showing a relationship of an outputvoltage and an output current obtained using the PD device according tothe first embodiment, which is an example of a rectangular shape showinga Constant Voltage Constant Current (CVCC).

FIG. 9B is a schematic diagram showing the relationship of the outputvoltage and the output current obtained using the PD device according tothe first embodiment, which is an example of a fold-back shape of aninverted trapezium.

FIG. 9C is a schematic diagram showing the relationship of the outputvoltage and the output current obtained using the PD device according tothe first embodiment, which is an example of a fold-back shape of aninverted triangle.

FIG. 9D is a schematic diagram showing the relationship of the outputvoltage and the output current obtained using the PD device according tothe first embodiment, which is an example of a trapezoidal shape.

FIG. 9E is a schematic diagram showing the relationship of the outputvoltage and the output current obtained using the PD device according tothe first embodiment, which is an example of a pentagon shape.

FIG. 10 is a schematic block configuration diagram showing asecondary-side controller applicable to the PD device according to thefirst embodiment.

FIG. 11 is a schematic block configuration diagram showing thesecondary-side controller also including a connecting relationship to anoutput (VBUS) line.

FIG. 12 is a schematic block configuration diagram showing asecondary-side controller (configuration example 1) applicable to the PDdevice according to the first embodiment.

FIG. 13 is a schematic block configuration diagram showing asecondary-side controller (configuration example 2) applicable to the PDdevice according to the first embodiment.

FIG. 14 is a schematic block configuration diagram showing asecondary-side controller (configuration example 3) applicable to the PDdevice according to the first embodiment.

FIG. 15 is a schematic block configuration diagram showing asecondary-side controller (configuration example 4) applicable to the PDdevice according to the first embodiment.

FIG. 16 is a schematic block configuration diagram showing asecondary-side controller (configuration example 5) applicable to the PDdevice according to the first embodiment.

FIG. 17 is a schematic block configuration diagram showing asecondary-side controller (configuration example 6) applicable to the PDdevice according to the first embodiment.

FIG. 18 is a schematic block configuration diagram showing asecondary-side controller (configuration example 7) applicable to the PDdevice according to the first embodiment.

FIG. 19 is a schematic block configuration diagram showing asecondary-side controller and a power output circuit applicable to thePD device according to the first embodiment.

FIG. 20 is a schematic block configuration diagram showing asecondary-side controller (configuration example 8) applicable to the PDdevice according to the first embodiment.

FIG. 21 is a schematic block configuration diagram showing asecondary-side controller and a power output circuit (configurationexample 9) applicable to the PD device according to the firstembodiment.

FIG. 22A shows a configuration example of a port selector shown in FIG.21.

FIG. 22B shows another configuration example of the port selector shownin FIG. 21.

FIG. 23 is a schematic block configuration diagram showing asecondary-side controller (configuration example 10) applicable to thePD device according to the first embodiment.

FIG. 24 is a schematic configuration diagram showing an aspect ofconnecting between the PD devices according to the first embodimentthrough receptacles.

FIG. 25 is a schematic configuration diagram showing the inside of thereceptacle applicable to the PD device according to the firstembodiment.

FIG. 26 is a schematic configuration diagram showing an aspect ofconnecting between the PD devices according to the first embodimentthrough receptacles and plugs.

FIG. 27A is a schematic configuration diagram showing an aspect ofconnecting between the PD devices according to the first embodimentthrough receptacles and a plug cable.

FIG. 27B is a diagram showing a connecting relationship between the tworeceptacles.

FIG. 28A is a schematic block configuration diagram for explaining aconnecting relationship between a power output circuit applicable to thePD device according to the first embodiment, and a power input circuit.

FIG. 28B is a schematic circuit configuration diagram corresponding tothe configuration shown in FIG. 28A.

FIG. 29A shows a specific circuit configuration example of the poweroutput circuit shown in FIG. 28B.

FIG. 29B is a configuration diagram showing a bidirectional switchapplicable to the configuration shown in FIG. 29A.

FIG. 30 is a schematic circuit configuration diagram showing the poweroutput circuit (configuration example 1) applicable to the PD deviceaccording to the first embodiment.

FIG. 31 is a schematic circuit configuration diagram showing the poweroutput circuit (configuration example 2) applicable to the PD deviceaccording to the first embodiment.

FIG. 32 is a schematic circuit configuration diagram showing the poweroutput circuit (configuration example 3) applicable to the PD deviceaccording to the first embodiment.

FIG. 33 is a schematic circuit configuration diagram showing the poweroutput circuit (configuration example 4) applicable to the PD deviceaccording to the first embodiment.

FIG. 34A is a schematic circuit block configuration diagram showing asecondary-side controller applied to the PD device according to thefirst embodiment.

FIG. 34B is another schematic circuit block configuration diagramshowing the secondary-side controller applied to the PD device accordingto the first embodiment.

FIG. 35 is a schematic circuit block configuration diagram showing a PDdevice according to a modified example 6 of the first embodiment.

FIG. 36 is a schematic circuit block configuration diagram showing a PDdevice according to a modified example 7 of the first embodiment.

FIG. 37 is a schematic circuit block configuration diagram showing a PDdevice according to a modified example 8 of the first embodiment.

FIG. 38 is a schematic circuit block configuration diagram showing a PDdevice according to a second embodiment.

FIG. 39 is a schematic circuit block configuration diagram showing a PDdevice according to a third embodiment.

FIG. 40 is a schematic circuit block configuration diagram showing a PDdevice according to a fourth embodiment.

FIG. 41 is a schematic circuit block configuration diagram showing a PDdevice according to a fifth embodiment.

FIG. 42 is a schematic circuit block configuration diagram showing a PDdevice according to a sixth embodiment.

FIG. 43 is a schematic circuit block configuration diagram showing a PDdevice according to a seventh embodiment.

FIG. 44 is a schematic circuit block configuration diagram showing ametal oxide semiconductor (MOS) switch applied to the PD deviceaccording to the embodiments.

FIG. 45A shows an example of connecting a USB PD and the PD device (PD)according to the embodiments in an AC adapter/AC charger with externalplugs, in an example of wire connection for connecting the AC adapter/ACcharger to a plug capable of being connected to an outlet, using acable.

FIG. 45B shows another example of connecting the USB PD and the PDdevice (PD) according to the embodiments in the AC adapter/AC chargerwith external plugs, in the example of wire connection for connectingthe AC adapter/AC charger to the plug capable of being connected to theoutlet, using the cable.

FIG. 46A shows an example of including the USB PD and the PD device (PD)according to the embodiments in the AC adapter/AC charger, in an exampleof containing a plug capable of being connected to the outlet in the ACadapter/AC charger.

FIG. 46B shows an example of connecting receptacles contained in the ACadapter/AC charger to the external plugs, in the example of containingthe plug capable of being connected to the outlet in the AC adapter/ACcharger.

FIG. 47A shows an example of connecting the PD in an AC adapter/ACcharger to an external plug, in an example of wire connection forconnecting the AC adapter/AC charger to a plug capable of beingconnected to an outlet using a cable.

FIG. 47B shows an example of including a receptacle in the AC adapter/ACcharger, in the example of wire connection for connecting the ACadapter/AC charger to the plug capable of being connected to the outletusing the cable.

FIG. 47C shows an example of connecting a plug contained in the ACadapter/AC charger to the external plug, in the example of wireconnection for connecting the AC adapter/AC charger to the plug capableof being connected to the outlet using the cable.

FIG. 48A shows an example of connecting the PD in the AC adapter/ACcharger to the external plug, in an example of wire connection forconnecting the AC adapter/AC charger to the plug capable of beingconnected to the outlet using a USB PD cable.

FIG. 48B shows an example of including a receptacle in the AC adapter/ACcharger, in the example of wire connection for connecting the ACadapter/AC charger to the plug capable of being connected to the outletusing the USB PD cable.

FIG. 48C shows an example of connecting a plug contained in the ACadapter/AC charger to the external plug, in the example of wireconnection for connecting the AC adapter/AC charger to the plug capableof being connected to the outlet using the USB PD cable.

FIG. 49A shows an example of connecting the PD in the AC adapter/ACcharger to the external plug, in an example of containing the plugcapable of being connected to the outlet in the AC adapter/AC charger.

FIG. 49B shows an example of including the receptacle in the ACadapter/AC charger, in the example of containing the plug capable ofbeing connected to the outlet in the AC adapter/AC charger.

FIG. 49C shows an example of connecting the plug contained in the ACadapter/AC charger to the external plugs, in the example of containingthe plug capable of being connected to the outlet in the AC adapter/ACcharger.

FIG. 50A shows an example of respectively connecting a plurality of thePDs in the AC adapter/AC charger to a plurality of the external plugs,in an example of containing the plug capable of being connected to theoutlet in the AC adapter/AC charger.

FIG. 50B shows an example of including a plurality of the receptacles inthe AC adapter/AC charger, in the example of containing the plug capableof being connected to the outlet in the AC adapter/AC charger.

FIG. 50C shows an example of respectively connecting a plurality of theplugs contained in the AC adapter/AC charger to a plurality of theexternal plugs, in the example of containing the plug capable of beingconnected to the outlet in the AC adapter/AC charger.

FIG. 51A shows in particular an example of including a plurality ofinternal circuits containing the USB PD device therein in an electronicapparatus, having a plurality of signals using the USB PD, in an exampleof wire connection for connecting the electronic apparatus to the plugcapable of being connected to the outlet using the cable.

FIG. 51B shows the example of wire connection in which the electronicapparatus is connected to the plug connectable to the outlet using thecable, and shows in particular an example in which the plug connectableto the outlet is included in the electronic apparatus, the plurality ofthe internal circuits which include the USB PD therein are included inthe electronic apparatus, having the plurality of the signals using theUSB PD.

FIG. 52A shows in particular an example of including the USB PDconnected to the outside in one internal circuit, in an example in whichthe plug capable of being connected to the outlet is included in theelectronic apparatus, and the plurality of the internal circuitscontaining the USB PD device therein are included in the electronicapparatus, having the plurality of the signals using the USB PD device.

FIG. 52B shows in particular an example of including a plurality of theUSB PD devices connected to the outside in one internal circuit, in theexample in which the plug capable of being connected to the outlet isincluded in the electronic apparatus, the plurality of the internalcircuits containing the USB PD device therein are included in theelectronic apparatus, having the plurality of the signals using the USBPD device.

FIG. 53A is an explanatory diagram of a protection function of the USBPD device according to the embodiments in the case where a smartphone isused as a connecting target.

FIG. 53B is an explanatory diagram of a protection function of the USBPD device according to the embodiments in the case where a laptop PC isused as a connecting target.

FIG. 54 shows a schematic bird's-eye view structure example of a PDdevice, in which a receptacle is mounted, according to the embodiments,applicable to the AC adapter, the AC charger, and the electronicapparatus.

FIG. 55 shows a schematic bird's-eye view structure example of a PDdevice, in which a receptacle is mounted, according to the embodiments,applicable to the AC adapter, the AC charger, and the electronicapparatus.

FIG. 56 shows a schematic bird's-eye view structure example of a PDdevice, in which a plurality of receptacles are mounted, according tothe embodiments, applicable to the AC adapter, the AC charger, and theelectronic apparatus.

FIG. 57 shows a schematic bird's-eye view structure example of a PDdevice, in which a plug is mounted, according to the embodiments,applicable to the AC adapter, the AC charger, and the electronicapparatus.

FIG. 58 is a schematic circuit block configuration diagram showing thePD device according to the embodiments connected to a plurality ofconnecting targets through a plurality of the receptacles.

FIG. 59 shows a schematic bird's-eye view structure example of a PDdevice, in which a plurality of receptacles and a switch are mounted,according to the embodiments, applicable to the AC adapter, the ACcharger, and the electronic apparatus.

FIG. 60 is a schematic circuit block configuration diagram forexplaining an example of using control input output signals for a USB-PDcommunication between a plurality of the PD devices according to theembodiments.

FIG. 61 is a schematic block configuration diagram for explaining thedata communications and the PD between two PCs, in the PD system towhich the PD device according to the embodiments can be applied.

FIG. 62A is a schematic block configuration diagram for explaining thedata communications and the power delivery between two units, in the PDsystem to which the PD device according to the embodiments can beapplied.

FIG. 62B is a schematic block configuration diagram showing a PD systemincluding an AC adapter and a smartphone each containing the PD deviceaccording to the embodiments.

FIG. 63 is a schematic block configuration diagram of a PD systemincluding two units each containing the PD device according to theembodiments.

FIG. 64 is another schematic block configuration diagram showing a PDsystem, to which the PD device according to the embodiments can beapplied, including two units different from those in FIG. 35.

FIG. 65 is a schematic block configuration diagram showing a first PDsystem to which the PD device according to the embodiments can beapplied.

FIG. 66 is a schematic block configuration diagram showing a second PDsystem to which the PD device according to the embodiments can beapplied.

FIG. 67 is a schematic block configuration diagram showing a third PDsystem to which the PD device according to the embodiments can beapplied.

FIG. 68 is a schematic block configuration diagram showing a fourth PDsystem to which the PD device according to the embodiments can beapplied.

FIG. 69 is a schematic block configuration diagram showing aconfiguration in which a controller and a signal conversion circuit arecontained in a CPU interface, in the PD system to which the PD deviceaccording to the embodiments can be applied.

DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

Next, certain embodiments will now be described with reference todrawings. In the description of the following drawings, the identical orsimilar reference numeral is attached to the identical or similar part.However, it should be noted that the drawings are schematic andtherefore the relation between thickness and the plane size and theratio of the thickness differs from an actual thing. Therefore, detailedthickness and size should be determined in consideration of thefollowing explanation.

Moreover, the embodiments shown hereinafter exemplify the apparatus andmethod for materializing the technical idea; and the embodiments doesnot specify the material, shape, structure, placement, etc. of eachcomponent part as the following. The embodiments may be changed withoutdeparting from the spirit or scope of claims.

[Basic Technology]

As shown in FIG. 1, a PD device 4A according to a basic technologyincludes: a DC/DC converter 13 disposed between an input and an output,DC/DC converter 13 including a transformer 15, a diode D1, a capacitorC1, and a MOS transistor Q1 and a resistor RS connected in seriesbetween a primary-side inductance L1 of the transformer 15 and a groundpotential; a primary-side controller 30 configured to control the MOStransistor Q1; a power source supply circuit 10 connected between theinput and the primary-side controller 30, the power source supplycircuit 10 configured to supply a power source to the primary-sidecontroller 30; a secondary-side controller 16 connected to the output,the secondary-side controller 16 capable of controlling an outputvoltage V_(o) and an output current I_(o); an error amplifier 21 forerror compensation connected to an output of the DC/DC converter 13 andthe secondary-side controller 16; and an insulation circuit 20 connectedto the error amplifier 21, the insulation circuit 20 configured tofeedback output information to the primary-side controller 30.

Moreover, the secondary-side controller 16 may be connected to theoutput (VBUS) through an AC coupling capacitor.

Moreover, as shown in FIG. 1, the PD device 4A according to the basictechnology includes: a switch SW configured to interrupt the output ofthe DC/DC converter 13 and the power line output (VBUS); and a filtercircuit (L_(F), C_(F)) disposed between the switch SW and the power lineoutput (VBUS). ON/OFF control for the switch SW can be executed by thesecondary-side controller 16.

An AC signal is superimposed to be input into the power line output(VBUS) from an outside, in the PD device 4A according to the basictechnology.

In the PD device 4A according to the basic technology, the control inputsignal is input into the secondary-side controller 16 from the powerline output (VBUS), and electric power information at the output side isfed back to the primary-side controller 30 through the error amplifier21 and the insulation circuit 20. The primary-side controller 30controls ON/OFF of the MOS transistor Q1, thereby stabilizing the outputvoltage.

Moreover, in the PD device 4A according to the basic technology, anamount of current conducted to the primary-side inductance L1 isdetected by the current sensing resistor RS, and an amount of current,e.g. a primary-side overcurrent, is controlled in the primary-sidecontroller 30. As a consequence, the PD device 4A according to the basictechnology has a variable function of an output voltage value andavailable output current value (MAX value).

In the PD device 4A according to the basic technology, the variablefunction of the output voltage value and the available output currentvalue (MAX value) of the step-down (buck) type DC/DC converter 13 isrealized by the feedback control from the secondary-side controller 16to the primary-side controller 30. Accordingly, a relationship betweenthe output voltage V_(o) and the output currents I_(o) can be varied(variable function) in accordance with loads (e.g., smartphones, laptopPCs, tablet PCs, etc.) connected to the output.

The inductance L_(F) formed with a filter coil at the output side is aseparating inductance. More specifically, the filter circuit includingthe inductance L_(F) and the capacitor C_(F) separates a control signalfrom the DC/DC converter in order that the control input signal from theoutput is not input into the DC/DC converter 13.

First Embodiment

FIG. 2 shows a schematic circuit block configuration of a PD deviceaccording to a first embodiment.

As shown in FIG. 2, a PD device 4 according to the first embodimentincludes: a DC/DC converter 13 disposed between an input and a VBUSoutput; a primary-side controller 30 configured to control an inputcurrent of the DC/DC converter 13; a secondary-side controller 16coupled to a control input, the secondary-side controller 16 configuredto executed a signal conversion of a control input signal of the controlinput, and configured to feed back the control input signal subjected tothe signal conversion to the primary-side controller 30; and an outputcapacitor C_(o) configured to couple the secondary-side controller 16and the VBUS output to each other. In this context, the primary-sidecontroller 30 varies an output voltage value and an available outputcurrent value (MAX value) of the DC/DC converter 13 by controlling theinput current of the DC/DC converter 13 on the basis of the controlinput signal fed back from the secondary-side controller 16.

Moreover, the PD device 4 according to the first embodiment may includea coupling capacitor C_(c) configured to couple the secondary-sidecontroller 16 and the control input to each other, as shown in FIG. 2.Alternatively, the secondary-side controller 16 and the control inputmay be directly coupled to each other, without through the couplingcapacitor C_(c).

The secondary-side controller 16 can further execute signal conversionand switching of an AC signal component of the VBUS output. The ACsignal component of the VBUS output is coupled to the secondary-sidecontroller 16 through the output capacitor C_(o) connected between theVBUS output and the secondary-side controller 16.

Moreover, as shown in FIG. 2, the PD device 4 according to the firstembodiment may include a control terminal CT, and the control input maybe coupled to the control terminal CT. Moreover, a control output signalof the PD device 4 according to the first embodiment can be output to anexternal apparatus through the control terminal CT.

Moreover, the control output signal of the PD device 4 according to thefirst embodiment can be output to the external apparatus also throughthe output capacitor C_(o), in the PD device 4 according to the firstembodiment.

Moreover, the DC/DC converter 13 includes a diode rectification typeconverter, in the PD device 4 according to the fifth embodiment.

In the PD device 4 according to the first embodiment, the DC/DCconverter 13 includes: a transformer 15; a first MOS transistor Q1 and acurrent sensing resistor RS each connected in series between theprimary-side inductance L1 of the transformer 15 and ground potential; adiode D1 connected between the secondary-side inductance L2 of thetransformer 15 and the VBUS output; and a first capacitor C1 connectedbetween the VBUS output and the ground potential.

In the PD device 4 according to the first embodiment, the secondary-sidecontroller 16 can execute a frequency conversion, a direct current (DC)level conversion, or an amplitude level conversion, for example.

Moreover, as shown in FIG. 2, the PD device 4 according to the firstembodiment may include the insulation circuit 20 connected to thesecondary-side controller 16, the insulation circuit 20 configured tofeed back the control input signal to the primary-side controller 30. Acapacitor, a photo coupler, a transformer, etc. is applicable to theinsulation circuit 20. Moreover, as usage, a bidirectional transformerhaving an insulated driver, a bilateral device, etc. may also be appliedthereto.

Moreover, as shown in FIG. 2, the PD device 4 according to the firstembodiment may include the error amplifier for error compensationconnected to the secondary-side controller 16, the error amplifier 21configured to feed back the control input signal to the insulationcircuit 20. The error amplifier 21 is controlled by the secondary-sidecontroller 16 and can execute an error compensation of the control inputsignal to be fed back to the insulation circuit 20.

Moreover, as shown in FIG. 2, the PD device 4 according to the firstembodiment may includes: a switch SW configured to interrupt the outputof the DC/DC converter 13 and the VBUS output; and a filter circuit(L_(F), C_(F)) disposed between the switch SW and the VBUS output.

The output of the DC/DC converter 13 and the power line output (VBUS)can be interrupted by the switch SW. ON/OFF control for the switch SWcan be executed by the secondary-side controller 16. The switch SW mayinclude a Metal Oxide Semiconductor Field Effect Transistor (MOSFET).

The inductance L_(F) formed with a filter coil at the output side is aseparating inductance. More specifically, the filter circuit includingthe inductance L_(F) and the capacitor C_(F) separates a control signalfrom the DC/DC converter in order that the control input signal from theoutput is not input into the DC/DC converter 13.

Moreover, as shown in FIG. 2, the PD device 4 according to the firstembodiment may include a power source supply circuit 10 connectedbetween an input of the DC/DC converter 13 and the primary-sidecontroller 30, the power source supply circuit 10 configured to supplyelectric power to the primary-side controller 30.

In the PD device 4 according to the first embodiment, the variablefunction of the output voltage value and the available output currentvalue (MAX value) of the step-down (buck) type DC/DC converter 13 isrealized by the feedback control from the secondary-side controller 16to the primary-side controller 30. Accordingly, a relationship betweenthe output voltage V_(o) and the output currents I_(o) can be varied(variable function) in accordance with loads (e.g., smartphones, laptopPCs, tablet PCs, etc.) connected to the output.

MODIFIED EXAMPLE 1

FIG. 3 shows a schematic circuit block configuration of a PD deviceaccording to a modified example 1 of the first embodiment.

As shown in FIG. 3, the PD device 4 according to the modified example 1of the first embodiment includes: a DC/DC converter 13 disposed betweenan input and a VBUS output; a primary-side controller 30 configured tocontrol an input current of the DC/DC converter 13; and a secondary-sidecontroller 16 coupled to a plurality of control inputs, thesecondary-side controller 16 configured to executed a signal conversionof control input signals of the plurality of the control inputs, andconfigured to feed back the control input signals subjected to thesignal conversion to the primary-side controller 30. In this context,the primary-side controller 30 varies an output voltage value and anavailable output current value (MAX value) of the DC/DC converter 13 bycontrolling the input current on the basis of the control input signalsfed back from the secondary-side controller 16.

Moreover, the PD device 4 according to the modified example 1 of thefirst embodiment may include an output capacitor C_(o) configured tocouple the secondary-side controller 16 and the VBUS output to eachother, as shown in FIG. 3.

The secondary-side controller 16 can further execute signal conversionand switching of an AC signal component of the VBUS output. The ACsignal component of the VBUS output is coupled to the secondary-sidecontroller 16 through the output capacitor C_(o) connected between theVBUS output and the secondary-side controller 16.

Moreover, as shown in FIG. 3, the PD device 4 according to the modifiedexample 1 of the first embodiment may include a plurality of controlterminals CT1, CT2, . . . , CTn, and the plurality of the control inputsmay be respectively coupled to the plurality of the controls terminalsCT1, CT2, . . . , CTn. Moreover, the respective control output signalsof the PD device 4 according to the modified example 1 of the firstembodiment can be output to external apparatuses through the pluralityof the respective control terminals CT1, CT2, . . . , CTn. The PD device4 according to the modified example 1 of the first embodiment mayinclude a coupling capacitor C_(c) configured to couple the plurality ofthe control terminals CT1, CT2, . . . , CTn and the secondary-sidecontrollers 16, in the same manner as FIG. 2. Alternatively, thesecondary-side controller 16 and the plurality of the control inputs maybe directly coupled to each other, without through the couplingcapacitor C_(c).

Moreover, the control output signal of the PD device 4 according to themodified example 1 of the first embodiment can be output to the externalapparatus also through the output capacitor C_(o), in the PD device 4according to the first embodiment.

Moreover, as shown in FIG. 2, the PD device 4 according to the modifiedexample 1 of the first embodiment may includes: a switch SW configuredto interrupt the output of the DC/DC converter 13 and the VBUS output;and a filter circuit (L_(F), C_(F)) disposed between the switch SW andthe VBUS output.

In the PD device 4 according to the modified example 1 of the firstembodiment, when the output capacitor C_(o) configured to couple thesecondary-side controller 16 and the VBUS output to each other is notapplied thereto, the inductance L_(F) may be omitted therefrom. Otherconfigurations are the same as those of the first embodiment.

MODIFIED EXAMPLE 2

FIG. 4 shows a schematic circuit block configuration of a PD deviceaccording to a modified example 2 of the first embodiment.

As shown in FIG. 4, the PD device 4 according to the modified example 2of the first embodiment includes a power output circuit 130 connected tothe primary-side controller 30, the power output circuit 130 configuredto supply output voltages to a plurality of VBUS outputs disposed inpairs with the plurality of the control inputs.

The power output circuit 130 may include a plurality of DC/DC converters13 ₁, 13 ₂, . . . , 13 _(n), as shown in FIG. 5.

Moreover, as shown in FIG. 4, the PD device 4 according to the modifiedexample 2 of the first embodiment includes a plurality of VBUS poweroutput terminals PT1, PT2, . . . , PTn, and the power output circuit 130can supply the output voltages through the plurality of the VBUS poweroutput terminals PT1, PT2, . . . , PTn.

Moreover, the PD device 4 according to the modified example 2 of thefirst embodiment may include AC coupling capacitors (not shown) coupledto the plurality of the control inputs, and the secondary-sidecontroller 16 may be coupled to the plurality of the control inputsrespectively through the AC coupling capacitors.

Moreover, the plurality of the control inputs may be directly connectedto the secondary-side controller 16. More specifically, the controlinput signals of the plurality of the control inputs may be directlyinput to the secondary-side controller 16 without through the ACcoupling capacitors, as shown in FIG. 4. Other configurations are thesame as those of the first embodiment.

MODIFIED EXAMPLE 3

FIG. 6 shows a schematic circuit block configuration of a PD deviceaccording to a modified example 3 of the first embodiment.

As shown in FIG. 6, the PD device 4 according to the modified example 3of the first embodiment includes: a DC/DC converter 13 ₀ disposedbetween an input and a VBUS output; a primary-side controller 30configured to control an input current of the DC/DC converter 13 ₀; anda secondary-side controller 16 coupled to a plurality of control inputs,the secondary-side controller 16 configured to executed a signalconversion of control input signals of the plurality of the controlinputs, and configured to feed back the control input signals subjectedto the signal conversion to the primary-side controller 30. In thiscontext, the primary-side controller 30 varies an output voltage valueand an available output current value (MAX value) of the DC/DC converter13 ₀ by controlling the input current on the basis of the control inputsignals fed back from the secondary-side controller 16. In FIG. 6, anillustration of an error amplifier (EA) 21 and an insulation circuit 20is omitted.

Moreover, the PD device 4 according to the modified example 3 of thefirst embodiment may include an output capacitor C_(o) configured tocouple the secondary-side controller 16 and the VBUS output to eachother, as shown in FIG. 6.

Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 6, the PD device 4 according to themodified example 3 of the first embodiment includes a power outputcircuit 130 connected to the primary-side controller 30, the poweroutput circuit 130 configured to supply output voltages to a pluralityof VBUS outputs disposed in pairs with the plurality of the controlinputs.

The power output circuit 130 includes a plurality of DC/DC converters 13₁, 13 ₂, . . . , 13 _(n), as shown in FIG. 6. The primary-sidecontroller varies an output voltage value and an available outputcurrent value (MAX value) of the DC/DC converters 13 ₁, 13 ₂, . . . , 13_(n) in addition to the DC/DC converter 13 ₀ by controlling the inputcurrent on the basis of the control input signals fed back from thesecondary-side controller 16.

Moreover, as shown in FIG. 6, the PD device 4 according to the modifiedexample 3 of the first embodiment includes a plurality of VBUS poweroutput terminals PT1, PT2, . . . , PTn, and the power output circuit 130can supply the output voltages through the plurality of the VBUS poweroutput terminals PT1, PT2, . . , PTn.

Moreover, the PD device 4 according to the modified example 3 of thefirst embodiment may include AC coupling capacitors (not shown) coupledto the plurality of the control inputs, and the secondary-sidecontroller 16 may be coupled to the plurality of the control inputsrespectively through the AC coupling capacitors.

Moreover, the plurality of the control inputs may be directly connectedto the secondary-side controller 16. More specifically, the controlinput signals of the plurality of the control inputs may be directlyinput to the secondary-side controller 16 without through the ACcoupling capacitors, as shown in FIG. 6. Other configurations are thesame as those of the first embodiment.

MODIFIED EXAMPLE 4

FIG. 7 shows a schematic circuit block configuration of a PD deviceaccording to a modified example 4 of the first embodiment. FIG. 7 is adiagram of implementing the secondary-side controller 16 in the PDdevice according to the modified example 3 of the first embodiment shownin FIG. 6.

More specifically, as shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, the PD device 4 accordingto the modified example 4 of the first embodiment includes: a DC/DCconverter 13 ₀ disposed between an input and a VBUS output; aprimary-side controller 30 configured to control an input current of theDC/DC converter 13 ₀; and a secondary-side controller 16 coupled to aplurality of control inputs, the secondary-side controller 16 configuredto executed a signal conversion of control input signals of theplurality of the control inputs, and configured to feed back the controlinput signals subjected to the signal conversion to the primary-sidecontroller 30. In this context, the primary-side controller 30 varies anoutput voltage value and an available output current value (MAX value)of the DC/DC converter 13 ₀ by controlling the input current on thebasis of the control input signals fed back from the secondary-sidecontroller 16.

Moreover, the PD device 4 according to the modified example 4 of thefirst embodiment may include an output capacitor C_(o) configured tocouple the secondary-side controller 16 and the VBUS output to eachother, as shown in FIG. 7.

In this context, the secondary-side controller includes a firstcommunication circuit 18 configured to execute a frequency conversion,and a second communication circuit 19 configured to execute a codeconversion, as shown in FIG. 7.

The output capacitor C_(o) may be connected between the firstcommunication circuit 18 and the VBUS output, as shown in FIG. 7.

Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 7, the PD device 4 according to themodified example 4 of the first embodiment includes a power outputcircuit 130 connected to the primary-side controller 30, the poweroutput circuit 130 configured to supply output voltages to a pluralityof VBUS outputs disposed in pairs with the plurality of the controlinputs.

As shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, the power output circuit 130 includes aplurality of DC/DC converters 13 ₁, 13 ₂, . . . , 13 _(n), and theprimary-side controller varies an output voltage value and an availableoutput current value (MAX value) of the DC/DC converters 13 ₁, 13 ₂, . .. , 13 _(n) in addition to the DC/DC converter 13 ₀ by controlling theinput current on the basis of the control input signals fed back fromthe secondary-side controller 16.

Moreover, as shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, the PD device 4 according to themodified example 4 of the first embodiment includes a plurality of VBUSpower output terminals PT1, PT2, . . . , PTn, and the power outputcircuit 130 can supply the output voltages through the plurality of theVBUS power output terminals PT1 (VBUS1), PT2 (VBUS2), . . . , PTn(VBUSn). Other configurations are the same as those of the modifiedexample 3 of the first embodiment.

MODIFIED EXAMPLE 5

FIG. 8 shows a schematic circuit block configuration of a PD deviceaccording to a modified example 5 of the first embodiment. FIG. 8 showsa block configuration of a diode rectification type DC/DC converter 13applied to the PD device according to the modified example 1 of thefirst embodiment shown in FIG. 3. A type of the DC/DC converter 13 isnot limited to such a diode rectification type, but can also be asynchronous rectification type. Moreover, a boosting type or a step-down(buck) type DC/DC converter 13 can also be applied thereto. Otherconfigurations are the same as those of the modified example 1 of thefirst embodiment.

As the relationship between the output voltage V_(o) and the outputcurrent I_(o) obtained by using the PD device 4 according to the firstembodiment, there can be adopted various shape, e.g. a rectangular shapeas shown in FIG. 9A, a fold-back shape of inverted trapezium as shown inFIG. 9B, a fold-back shape of inverted triangle as shown in FIG. 9C, atrapezoidal shape as shown in FIG. 9D, and a pentagonal shape as shownin FIG. 9E. For example, the rectangular shape shown in FIG. 9A is anexample of Constant Voltage Constant Current (CVCC).

In addition, in the PD device 4 according to the first embodiment,another output capacitor C_(o) for extracting the AC signalssuperimposed to be input into the power line output (VBUS) from anoutside may be connected between the secondary-side controller 16 andthe power line output (VBUS). However, in such a case, the separatinginductance L_(F) will be required therefor. More specifically, since itis required to separate the control input signal from the power lineoutput (VBUS) in order that the control input signal is not input intothe DC/DC converter 13, there will be required a filter circuitincluding the inductance L_(F) and the capacitor C_(F). On the otherhand, if the output capacitor C_(o) is not applied in the PD device 4according to the first embodiment, such a separating inductance L_(F)becomes unnecessary.

(Configuration of Secondary-side Controller)

FIG. 10 shows a schematic block configuration of the secondary-sidecontroller 16 applicable to the PD device according to the firstembodiment. Moreover, FIG. 11 shows a schematic block configuration ofthe secondary-side controller also including a connecting relationshipto an output (VBUS) line.

As shown in FIG. 10, in the PD device according to the first embodiment,the secondary-side controller 16 may includes: a protocol conversionunit 18 connected to an error amplifier (EA) 21, the protocol conversionunit 18 configured to execute a frequency conversion; and acommunication circuit 19 disposed between the protocol conversion unit18 and the control input, the communication circuit 19 configured toexecute a code conversion.

Moreover, the output capacitor C_(o) may be connected between theprotocol conversion unit 18 and the VBUS output, in the PD deviceaccording to the first embodiment, as shown in FIG. 11.

In the PD device according to the first embodiment, the control inputsin the plurality of the control terminals CT1, CT2, . . . , CTn aresubjected to a coding modulation (code conversion) in the communicationcircuit 19, and also are subjected to the frequency conversion from afrequency f1 to a frequency f2 in the protocol conversion unit 18, andthen are input into the error amplifier (EA) 21.

Moreover, the respective control output signals of the PD device 4according to the first embodiment can be output to external apparatusesthrough the plurality of the respective control terminals CT1, CT2, . .. , CTn. More specifically, the control signals from the primary-sidecontroller 30 are also subjected to the frequency conversion from thefrequency f2 to the frequency f1 in the protocol conversion unit 18, andare also subjected to the coding modulation in the communication circuit19, and then can be output to the plurality of the control terminalsCT1, CT2, . . . , CTn.

Moreover, the AC signal components superimposed on the VBUS output aresubjected to the frequency conversion from the frequency f1 to thefrequency f2 through the output capacitor C_(o) in the protocolconversion unit 18, and are subjected to the coding modulation in thecommunication circuit 19, and then are input into the error amplifier(EA) 21. Moreover, the control signals from the primary-side controller30 are also subjected to the frequency conversion from the frequency f2to the frequency f1 in the protocol conversion unit 18, and are alsosubjected to the coding modulation in the communication circuit 19, andthen can be output to the VBUS output through the output capacitorC_(o). Thus, a control output signal of the PD device 4 according to thefirst embodiment can be output to an external apparatus also through theVBUS output.

CONFIGURATION EXAMPLE 1

FIG. 12 shows a schematic block configuration example 1 of thesecondary-side controller 16S applicable to the PD device according tothe first embodiment.

In the PD device according to the first embodiment, the secondary-sidecontroller 16S may include a switch (S1, T0, T1) connected to an erroramplifier (EA) 21, the switch (S1, T0, T1) configured to select (switch)between the output capacitor C_(o) and the control input supplied intothe control terminal CT, as shown in FIG. 12.

CONFIGURATION EXAMPLE 2

FIG. 13 shows a schematic block configuration example 2 of thesecondary-side controller 16S applicable to the PD device according tothe first embodiment.

In the PD device according to the first embodiment, as shown in FIG. 13,the secondary-side controller 16S may include: a transceiver 26connected to the output capacitor C_(o); and a switch (S1, T0, T1)connected to the error amplifier (EA) 21, the switch (S1, T0, T1)configured to select between the transceiver 26 and the control inputsupplied into the control terminal CT.

CONFIGURATION EXAMPLE 3

FIG. 14 shows a schematic block configuration example 3 of thesecondary-side controller 16S applicable to the PD device according tothe first embodiment.

In the PD device according to the first embodiment, the secondary-sidecontroller 16S may include a transceiver 26 connected to an erroramplifier (EA) 21, the transceiver 26 configured to select between theoutput capacitor C_(o) and the control input supplied into the controlterminal CT, as shown in FIG. 14. In this context, the transceiver 26can execute conversion and switching of transmission and receptionsignal between the output capacitor C_(o) and the control input suppliedinto the control terminal CT.

CONFIGURATION EXAMPLE 4

FIG. 15 shows a schematic block configuration example 4 of thesecondary-side controller 16S applicable to the PD device according tothe first embodiment.

In the PD device according to the first embodiment, as shown in FIG. 15,the secondary-side controller 16S may include: a first transceiver 26 ₀connected to the output capacitor C_(o); and a second transceiver 26 ₁connected to the control input supplied into the control terminal CT;and a switch (S1, T0, T1) connected to the error amplifier (EA) 21, theswitch (S1, T0, T1) configured to select between the first transceiver26 ₀ and the second transceiver 26 ₁. In this context, the firsttransceiver 26 ₀ and the second transceiver 26 ₁ include the sameconfiguration.

CONFIGURATION EXAMPLE 5

FIG. 16 shows a schematic block configuration example 5 of thesecondary-side controller 16S applicable to the PD device according tothe first embodiment.

In the PD device according to the first embodiment, as shown in FIG. 16,the secondary-side controller 16S may include: a first transceiver 26 ₀connected to the output capacitor C_(o); and a second transceiver 26 ₁connected to the control input supplied into the control terminal CT;and a switch (S1, T0, T1) connected to the error amplifier (EA) 21, theswitch (S1, T0, T1) configured to select between the first transceiver26 ₀ and the second transceiver 26 ₁. In this context, the firsttransceiver 26 ₀ and the second transceiver 26 ₁ include configurationsdifferent from each other.

CONFIGURATION EXAMPLE 6

FIG. 17 shows a schematic block configuration example 6 of thesecondary-side controller 16S applicable to the PD device according tothe first embodiment.

In the PD device according to the first embodiment, as shown in FIG. 17,the secondary-side controller 16S may include: a first transceiver 26 ₀connected to the output capacitor C_(o); and a plurality of secondtransceivers 26 ₁, 26 ₂, and 26 ₃ respectively connected to controlinputs respectively supplied into a plurality of control terminals CT1,CT2, and CT3; and a switch (S1, T0, T1) connected to the error amplifier(EA) 21, the switch (S1, T0, T1) configured to select between the firsttransceiver 26 ₀ and the second transceivers 26 ₁, 26 ₂, and 26 ₃. Inthis context, the plurality of the second transceivers 26 ₁, 26 ₂, and26 ₃ may include the same configuration, and the first transceiver 26 ₀and the second transceivers 26 ₁, 26 ₂, and 26 ₃ may includeconfigurations different from each other.

CONFIGURATION EXAMPLE 7

FIG. 18 shows a schematic block configuration example 7 of thesecondary-side controller 16S applicable to the PD device according tothe first embodiment.

In the PD device according to the first embodiment, as shown in FIG. 18,the secondary-side controller 16S may include a switch (S1, T0, T1, T2,T3, . . . , Tn) connected to the error amplifier (EA) 21, the switch(S1, T0, T1, T2, T3, . . . , Tn) configured to select between the outputcapacitor C_(o) and a plurality of control inputs supplied into aplurality of control terminals CT1, CT2, CT3, . . . , CTn.

CONFIGURATION EXAMPLE 8

FIG. 19 shows a schematic block configuration of the secondary-sidecontroller and a power output circuit, applicable to the PD deviceaccording to the first embodiment.

Also in the schematic block configuration examples 1-7 of thesecondary-side controller shown in FIGS. 12-18, there is provided apower output circuit 130 connected to the primary-side controller 30,the power output circuit 130 configured to supply output voltages to aplurality of VBUS outputs disposed in pairs with the plurality of thecontrol inputs.

More specifically, as shown in FIG. 19, a plurality of VBUS power outputterminals PT1, PT2, . . . , PTn disposed in pairs with a plurality ofcontrol terminals CT1, CT2, . . . , CT3 are provided, and the poweroutput circuit 130 can supply the output voltages through the pluralityof the VBUS power output terminals PT1, PT2, . . . , PTn.

FIG. 20 shows a schematic block configuration example 8 of thesecondary-side controller 16S applicable to the PD device according tothe first embodiment.

As shown in FIG. 20, the PD device 4 according to the first embodimentmay include a power output circuit 130 connected to the primary-sidecontroller 30, the power output circuit 130 configured to supply outputvoltages to a plurality of VBUS outputs disposed in pairs with theplurality of the control inputs; and the secondary-side controller 16Smay include a switch (S1, T0, T1, T2, T3, . . . , Tn) configured toselect a plurality of control inputs.

Moreover, as shown in FIG. 20, the plurality of the control inputs arerespectively coupled to a plurality of control terminals CT1, CT2, . . ., CTn. Moreover, the respective control output signals of the PD device4 according to the first embodiment can be output to externalapparatuses through the plurality of the respective control terminalsCT1, CT2, . . . , CTn.

Moreover, as shown in FIG. 20, the power output circuit 130 can supplythe output voltages respectively through the plurality of the VBUS poweroutput terminals PT1, PT2, PTn.

CONFIGURATION EXAMPLE 9

FIG. 21 shows a schematic block configuration example 9 of thesecondary-side controller 16 applicable to the PD device according tothe first embodiment.

As shown in FIG. 21, the PD device 4 according to the first embodimentmay include a power output circuit 130 connected to the primary-sidecontroller 30, the power output circuit 130 configured to supply outputvoltages to a plurality of VBUS outputs disposed in pairs with theplurality of the control inputs; and the secondary-side controller 16may include a port selector 116 configured to select the plurality ofthe control inputs.

Moreover, as shown in FIG. 21, the plurality of the control inputs arerespectively coupled to a plurality of control terminals CT1, CT2, . . ., CTn. Moreover, the respective control output signals of the PD device4 according to the first embodiment can be output to externalapparatuses through the plurality of the respective control terminalsCT1, CT2, . . . , CTn.

Moreover, as shown in FIG. 21, the power output circuit 130 can supplythe output voltages respectively through the plurality of the VBUS poweroutput terminals PT1, PT2, . . . , PTn.

Moreover, FIG. 22A shows a configuration example of the port selector116, and FIG. 22B shows another configuration example of the portselector 116.

As shown in FIG. 22A, the port selector 116 may include: a CPU 125; anda switch SW connected to the CPU 125, the switch SW configured to selectthe plurality of the control terminals CT1, CT2, . . . , CTn.

Moreover, as shown in FIG. 22B, the port selector 116 may include a CPU125 connected to the plurality of the control terminals CT1, CT2, . . ., CTn. More specifically, the CPU 125 itself may include a switchfunction configured to select the plurality of the control terminalsCT1, CT2, . . . , CTn, in the example shown in FIG. 22B.

CONFIGURATION EXAMPLE 10

FIG. 23 shows a schematic block configuration example 10 of thesecondary-side controller 16 applicable to the PD device according tothe first embodiment.

In the PD device according to the first embodiment, the secondary-sidecontroller 16 may include a plurality of port selectors 116 ₁ and 116 ₂as shown in FIG. 23.

As shown in FIG. 23, the control input terminals CT1 and CT2 areconnected to the port selector 116 ₁, and the control input terminalsCT3 and CT4 are connected to the port selector 116 ₂.

In the same manner as the configuration example 8 in FIG. 20 or theconfiguration example 9 in FIG. 21, the PD device 4 according to thefirst embodiment may include a power output circuit 130 connected to theprimary-side controller 30, the power output circuit 130 configured tosupply output voltages to a plurality of VBUS outputs disposed in pairswith the plurality of the control inputs.

In the same manner as the configuration example 9 shown in FIGS. 22A and22B, each of the port selectors 116 ₁ and 116 ₂ may include a CPU and aswitch connected to the CPU, the switch configured to select theplurality of the control terminals. Alternatively, each of the portselectors 116 ₁ and 116 ₂ may include a CPU connected to the pluralityof the control terminals.

(Example of Connection through Receptacle)

FIG. 24 shows a schematic configuration of connecting between the PDdevices according to the first embodiment through receptacles 41R and42R.

Each of the receptacles 41R and 42R has a VBUS terminal, a CC1 terminal,a CC2 terminal, a D− terminal, a D+ terminal, and a GND terminal, and isconfigured to connect between the PD devices according to the firstembodiment.

The VBUS terminal is connected to a power line POL used forbidirectional communications between the devices. One of the VBUSterminals is connected to a load (LOAD), and another of the VBUSterminals is connected to a variable power supply of approximately 5V toapproximately 20V (MAX), for example. In this context, the variablepower supply corresponds to the output voltage of the PD deviceaccording to the first embodiment. The GND terminal is a ground terminal(earth terminal).

The CC1 terminal and the CC2 terminal are communication terminalsconnected to a communication dedicated line COL used for bidirectionalcommunications between the devices. The connecting configuration is setso that a constant voltage can be supplied to the CC1 terminal by apower supply VDD and impedance circuits Z1 and Z2, and data (BMC) issupplied from one of the CC1 terminals and then is received into theother of the CC1 terminals through a comparator, for example. The CC1terminal may be connected to a constant current supply, instead ofsupplying the constant voltage. In this context, each of the impedancecircuits Z1 and Z2 can be configured by including a parallel circuitincluding a current source and a resistance, and can select any one ofthe current source or the resistance. Moreover, a voltage controlregulator (VCON) may be connected to one of the CC2 terminals, and aload (LOAD) may be connected to the other of the CC2 terminals.

The D− terminal and the D+ terminal are serial-data interface terminalsfor realizing a flipping function.

(Configuration Example of Inside of Receptacle)

FIG. 25 shows a schematic configuration of the inside of the receptacle41R (42R) applicable to the PD device according to the first embodiment.In the internal configuration of the receptacle 41R (42R), the VBUS,CC1, CC2, D−, D+, and GND terminals are disposed on both sides of asubstrate used for disposing terminals.

Accordingly, there is no need to distinguish between the upper or lowersurface (front or back surface) of the receptacle 41R (42R).

(Example of Connection through Receptacle and Plug)

FIG. 26 shows a schematic configuration of connecting between the PDdevices according to the first embodiment through a receptacle 41R (42R)and a plug 41P (42P). As shown in FIG. 26, by inserting the plug 41P(42P) into the receptacle 41R (42R), an electric power supply becomesavailable through the power line POL, and data communications alsobecome available through the communication dedicated line COL.

FIG. 27A shows a schematic configuration of connecting between the PDdevices according to the first embodiment through the receptacles 41Rand 42R, plugs 2, and a cable (POL/COL). In this context, the plug 2corresponds to the plug 41P (42P) shown in FIG. 20.

The plug 2 has a shape corresponding to the shape of the receptacles 41Rand 42R shown in FIG. 25, and includes an electrode on one side surfacethereof, and has the VBUS, CC1, CC2, D−, D+, and GND terminals.Furthermore, the plug 2 also includes an electrode on a back surfaceside thereof, and has the GND, D+, D−, CC2, CC1, and VBUS terminals.Accordingly, the plug 2 can be called as an advanced USB plug, and thereceptacle 41R (42R) can be called as an advanced USB receptacle.

A connecting relationship between the two receptacles 41R and 42R isexpressed as shown in FIG. 27B. As shown in FIG. 27B, four kinds ofconnecting relationship between the two receptacles (41R, 42R) withrespect to the plugs (41P, 42P) are available, i.e., a relationshipbetween a normal connection N and a normal connection N, a relationshipbetween a normal connection N and a reverse connection R, a relationshipbetween a reverse connection R and a normal connection N, and arelationship between a reverse connection R and a reverse connection R.

(Connecting Relationship between Power Circuits)

FIG. 28A shows a schematic block configuration for explaining aconnecting relationship between the power output circuit 130 applicableto the PD device according to the first embodiment and a load circuit134, and FIG. 28B shows a schematic circuit configuration correspondingto the configuration shown in FIG. 28A.

It can be assumed that the load circuit 134 is disposed in an externaldevice which is externally connected through the connection between thereceptacles 41R and 42R.

In the example shown in FIG. 28A, a plurality of VBUS outputs areincluded in the power output circuit 130, and the respective VBUS outputare connected to the load circuit 134 through respective power linesPOL1, POL2, and PLO3. As shown in FIG. 28B, the power output circuit 130includes a plurality of switches (SWP, P1, P2, P3); the load circuit 134includes a plurality of switches (SWP, P1, P2, P3) respectivelyconnected to the power lines POL1, POL2, and PLO3, and is connected toloads 1-3. The power output circuit 130 and the load circuit 134 arebidirectionally connected to each other.

A specific circuit configuration of the power output circuit 130 shownin FIG. 28B is expressed as shown in FIG. 29A. As shown in FIG. 29A, thepower output circuit 130 is includes: a buffer 136 connected to theprimary-side controller 30, and a plurality of switches (SWP1, SWP2,SWP3) connected to an output of the buffer 136. In this context, theplurality of switches (SWP1, SWP2, SWP3) can be configured to includebidirectional switches, for example, as shown in FIG. 29B.

(Configuration of Power Output Circuit) CONFIGURATION EXAMPLE 1

FIG. 30 shows a schematic circuit configuration example 1 of the poweroutput circuit 130 applicable to the PD device according to the firstembodiment.

As shown in FIG. 30, the schematic circuit configuration example 1 ofthe power output circuit 130 applicable to the PD device according tothe first embodiment includes a configuration of being branched from thesecondary-side inductance L2 of the transformer 15 in the dioderectification type DC/DC converter 13. More specifically, a VBUS outputVBUS1 is obtained from an output of a diode D11 and a capacitor C11through a switch SW1 and a filter circuit L_(F1) and C_(F1), a VBUSoutput VBUS2 is obtained from an output of a diode D12 and a capacitorC12 through a switch SW2 and filter circuit L_(F2) and C_(F2), and aVBUS output VBUS3 is obtained from an output of a diode D13 and acapacitor C13 through a switch SW3 and a filter circuit L_(F3) andC_(F3).

CONFIGURATION EXAMPLE 2

FIG. 31 shows a schematic circuit configuration example 2 of the poweroutput circuit 130 applicable to the PD device according to the firstembodiment.

As shown in FIG. 31, the schematic circuit configuration example 2 ofthe power output circuit 130 applicable to the PD device according tothe first embodiment includes a plurality of DC/DC converters 13 ₁, 13₂, . . . , 13 _(n). More specifically, an VBUS output VBUS1 is obtainedfrom an output of the DC/DC converter 13 ₁ through a switch SW1 and afilter circuit L_(F1) and C_(F1), an VBUS output VBUS2 is obtained froman output of the DC/DC converter 13 ₂ through a switch SW2 and a filtercircuit L_(F2) and C_(F2), . . . , and a VBUS output VBUSn is obtainedfrom an output of the DC/DC converter 13 _(n) through a switch SWn and afilter circuit L_(Fn) and C_(Fn).

CONFIGURATION EXAMPLE 3

FIG. 32 shows a schematic circuit configuration example 3 of the poweroutput circuit 130 applicable to the PD device according to the firstembodiment.

As shown in FIG. 32, the schematic circuit configuration example 3 ofthe power output circuit 130 applicable to the PD device according tothe first embodiment includes: a diode rectification type DC/DCconverter 13; and a plurality of DC/DC converters 113 ₁, 113 ₂, . . . ,113 _(n) connected to an output of the diode rectification type DC/DCconverter 13. More specifically, an VBUS output VBUS1 is obtained froman output of the DC/DC converter 113 ₁ through a switch SW1 and a filtercircuit L_(F1) and C_(F1), an VBUS output VBUS2 is obtained from anoutput of the DC/DC converter 113 ₂ through a switch SW2 and a filtercircuit L_(F2) and C_(F2), . . . , and a VBUS output VBUSn is obtainedfrom an output of the DC/DC converter 113 _(n) through a switch SWn anda filter circuit L_(Fn) and C_(Fn).

CONFIGURATION EXAMPLE 4

FIG. 33 shows a schematic circuit configuration example 4 of the poweroutput circuit 130 applicable to the PD device according to the firstembodiment.

As shown in FIG. 33, the schematic circuit configuration example 4 ofthe power output circuit 130 applicable to the PD device according tothe first embodiment includes: a diode rectification type DC/DCconverter 13; and a plurality of MOS switches (MS₁₁ and MS₁₂) (MS₂₁ andMS₂₂), and (MS₃₁ and MS₃₂) connected to an output of the DC/DC converter13, wherein conductive states of the MOS switches can be controlled bythe secondary-side controller 16. More specifically, a VBUS outputVBUS1, a VBUS output VBUS2, and a VBUS output VBUS3 are respectivelyobtained from outputs of the plurality of the MOS switches (MS₁₁ andMS₁₂), (MS₂₁ and MS₂₂), and (MS₃₁ and MS₃₂).

In the PD device according to the first embodiment, as shown in FIG.34A, the secondary-side controller 16 may include a voltage and currentcontrol circuit 17 configured to execute determination of voltage andcurrent on the basis of the control input signal, the voltage andcurrent control circuit 17 configured to control the output voltageV_(o) and the output current I_(o). Moreover, the control input signalmay include a signal based on a half-duplex communication system. Forexample, a frequency may be fixed at 150 kHz (300 kbps), and a pulsewidth of ON/OFF of “1”/“0” may be modulated.

Moreover, as shown in FIG. 34B, the secondary-side controller 16 appliedto the PD device according to the first embodiment may further contain afrequency conversion circuit (FSK) 161, a transmitter 164 and receiver165. In this context, a frequency conversion from approximately 23.2 MHzto approximately 500 kHz, for example, can be realized by the frequencyconversion circuit 161, the transmitter 164, and the receiver 165.

MODIFIED EXAMPLE 6

A PD device 4 according to a modified example 6 of the first embodimentmay include a secondary-side controller 16E in which the error amplifier21 is contained, as shown in FIG. 35. More specifically, as shown inFIG. 35, the secondary-side controller 16E and the error amplifier 21maybe integrally formed with each other. Other configurations are thesame as those of the first embodiment.

MODIFIED EXAMPLE 7

Moreover, a PD device 4 according to a modified example 7 of the firstembodiment may include a secondary-side controller 161 in which an erroramplifier 21 and an insulation circuit 20 are contained, as shown inFIG. 36. More specifically, as shown in FIG. 36, the secondary-sidecontroller 16, the error amplifier 21, and the insulation circuit 20 maybe integrally formed with one another. Other configurations are the sameas those of the first embodiment.

MODIFIED EXAMPLE 8

Moreover, a PD device 4 according to a modified example 6 of the firstembodiment may include a secondary-side controller 16P in which theerror amplifier 21, the insulation circuit 20, and the primary-sidecontroller 30 are contained, as shown in FIG. 37. More specifically, asshown in FIG. 34, the secondary-side controller 16, the error amplifier21, the insulation circuit 20, and the primary-side controller 30 may beintegrally formed with one another. Other configurations are the same asthose of the first embodiment.

According to the first embodiment and its modified examples, there canbe provided the PD device capable of switching with respect to theplurality of apparatuses, and capable of controlling the output voltagevalue and the available output current value (MAX value).

Second Embodiment

As shown in FIG. 38, a PD device 4 according to the second embodimentincludes: a DC/DC converter 13 disposed between an input and a VBUSoutput; a primary-side controller 30 configured to control an inputcurrent of the DC/DC converter 13; a secondary-side controller 16coupled to a plurality of control inputs, the secondary-side controller16 configured to executed a signal conversion of control input signalsof the plurality of the control inputs, and configured to feed back thecontrol input signals subjected to the signal conversion to theprimary-side controller 30. In this context, the primary-side controller30 varies an output voltage value and an available output current value(MAX value) of the DC/DC converter 13 by controlling the input currenton the basis of the control input signals fed back from thesecondary-side controller 16.

The PD device 4 according to the second embodiment may include an outputcapacitor C_(o) connected between the VBUS output and the secondary-sidecontroller 16, as shown in FIG. 38.

The secondary-side controller 16 can further execute signal conversionand switching of an AC signal component of the VBUS output. The ACsignal component of the VBUS output is coupled to the secondary-sidecontroller 16 through the output capacitor C_(o) connected between theVBUS output and the secondary-side controller 16.

Moreover, as shown in FIG. 38, the PD device 4 according to the secondembodiment may include a power output circuit 130 connected to theprimary-side controller 30, the power output circuit 130 configured tosupply output voltages to a plurality of VBUS power outputs disposed inpairs with the plurality of the control inputs.

Moreover, as shown in FIG. 38, the PD device 4 according to the secondembodiment may include a plurality of control terminals CT1, CT2, . . ., CTn, and the plurality of the control inputs may be respectivelycoupled to the plurality of the controls terminals CT1, CT2, . . . ,CTn. Moreover, a control output signal of the PD device 4 according tothe second embodiment can be output to an external apparatus through theplurality of the control terminals CT1, CT2, . . . , CTn.

Moreover, as shown in FIG. 38, the PD device 4 according to the secondembodiment includes a plurality of VBUS power output terminals PT1, PT2,. . . , PTn, and the power output circuit 130 can supply the outputvoltages through the plurality of the VBUS power output terminals PT1,PT2, . . . , PTn.

Moreover, the PD device 4 according to the second embodiment may includeAC coupling capacitors (not shown) coupled to the plurality of thecontrol inputs, and the secondary-side controller 16 maybe coupled tothe plurality of the control inputs respectively through the AC couplingcapacitors.

In the PD device 4 according to the second embodiment, the DC/DCconverter 13 is a diode rectification type converter. More specifically,the DC/DC converter 13 includes: a transformer 15; a first MOStransistor Q1 and a current sensing resistor RS each connected in seriesbetween the primary-side inductance L1 of the transformer 15 and groundpotential; a diode D1 connected between the secondary-side inductance L2of the transformer 15 and the output; and a first capacitor C1 connectedbetween the output and the ground potential.

In the PD device 4 according to the second embodiment, thesecondary-side controller 16 can execute a frequency conversion, a DClevel conversion, or an amplitude level conversion, for example.

Moreover, as shown in FIG. 38, the PD device 4 according to the secondembodiment may include a MOS switch Q_(SW) connected to the output ofthe DC/DC converter 13 and configured to interrupt an output voltage ofthe DC/DC converter 13. The output of the DC/DC converter 13 and thepower line output (VBUS) can be interrupted by the MOS switch Q_(SW).ON/OFF control for the MOS switch Q_(SW) can be executed by thesecondary-side controller 16. Other configurations are the same as thoseof the first embodiment.

According to the second embodiment, there can be provided the PD devicecapable of switching with respect to the plurality of apparatuses, andcapable of controlling the output voltage value and the available outputcurrent value (MAX value).

Third Embodiment

As shown in FIG. 39, a PD device 4 according to the third embodimentincludes: a DC/DC converter 13 disposed between an input and a VBUSoutput; a primary-side controller 30 configured to control an inputcurrent of the DC/DC converter 13; and a secondary-side controller 16coupled to a plurality of control inputs, the secondary-side controller16 configured to executed a signal conversion of control input signalsof the plurality of the control inputs, and configured to feed back thecontrol input signals subjected to the signal conversion to theprimary-side controller 30. In this context, the primary-side controller30 varies an output voltage value and an available output current value(MAX value) of the DC/DC converter 13 by controlling the input currenton the basis of the control input signals fed back from thesecondary-side controller 16.

The PD device 4 according to the third embodiment may include an outputcapacitor C_(o) connected between the VBUS output and the secondary-sidecontroller 16, as shown in FIG. 39.

The secondary-side controller 16 can further execute signal conversionand switching of an AC signal component of the VBUS output. The ACsignal component of the VBUS output is coupled to the secondary-sidecontroller 16 through the output capacitor C_(o) connected between theVBUS output and the secondary-side controller 16.

Moreover, as shown in FIG. 39, the PD device 4 according to the thirdembodiment may include a power output circuit 130 connected to theprimary-side controller 30, the power output circuit 130 configured tosupply output voltages to a plurality of VBUS power outputs disposed inpairs with the plurality of the control inputs.

Moreover, as shown in FIG. 39, the PD device 4 according to the thirdembodiment may include a plurality of control terminals CT1, CT2, . . ., CTn, and the plurality of the control inputs may be respectivelycoupled to the plurality of the controls terminals CT1, CT2, . . . ,CTn. Moreover, a control output signal of the PD device 4 according tothe third embodiment can be output to an external apparatus through theplurality of the control terminals CT1, CT2, . . . , CTn.

Moreover, as shown in FIG. 39, the PD device 4 according to the thirdembodiment includes a plurality of VBUS power output terminals PT1, PT2,. . . , PTn, and the power output circuit 130 can supply the outputvoltages through the plurality of the VBUS power output terminals PT1,PT2, . . . , PTn.

Moreover, the PD device 4 according to the third embodiment may includeAC coupling capacitors (not shown) coupled to the plurality of thecontrol inputs, and the secondary-side controller 16 maybe coupled tothe plurality of the control inputs respectively through the AC couplingcapacitors.

In the PD device 4 according to the third embodiment, the DC/DCconverter 13 is a synchronous rectification type converter. Morespecifically, the DC/DC converter 13 includes: a transformer 15; a firstMOS transistor Q1 and a current sensing resistor RS each connected inseries between the primary-side inductance L1 of the transformer 15 andground potential; a second MOS transistor M1 connected between thesecondary-side inductance L2 of the transformer 15 and the output; and afirst capacitor C1 connected between the output and the groundpotential.

In the PD device 4 according to the third embodiment, the secondary-sidecontroller 16 can execute a frequency conversion, a DC level conversion,or an amplitude level conversion, for example.

In the PD device 4 according to the third embodiment, since thesynchronous rectification method is adopted for the DC/DC converter,instead of the diode rectification system, DC/DC power conversionefficiency can be increased, compared with the second embodimentadapting the diode rectification system. Other configurations are thesame as those of the first embodiment.

According to the third embodiment, there can be provided the PD devicecapable of switching with respect to the plurality of apparatuses, andcapable of controlling the output voltage value and the available outputcurrent value (MAX value).

Fourth Embodiment

As shown in FIG. 40, a PD device 4 according to a fourth embodimentincludes an AC/DC converter connected to an AC input, the AC/DCconverter 300 composed of a fuse 11, a choke coil 12, a dioderectification bridge 14, capacitors C5, C6, C3, instead of the powersource supply circuit 10 as in the first embodiment.

Moreover, there are included an auxiliary inductance L4 including theprimary-side auxiliary winding in the transformer 15, and a diode D2 anda capacitor C4 connected in parallel to the auxiliary inductance L4therein, and the DC voltage VCC is supplied from the capacitor C4 to theprimary-side controller 30.

As shown in FIG. 40, the PD device 4 according to the fourth embodimentincludes: a DC/DC converter 13 disposed between an input (DC output ofthe AC/DC converter) and a VBUS output; a primary-side controller 30configured to control an input current of the DC/DC converter 13; and asecondary-side controller 16 coupled to a plurality of control inputs,the secondary-side controller 16 configured to executed a signalconversion of control input signals of the plurality of the controlinputs, and configured to feed back the control input signals subjectedto the signal conversion to the primary-side controller 30. In thiscontext, the primary-side controller 30 varies an output voltage valueand an available output current value (MAX value) of the DC/DC converter13 by controlling the input current on the basis of the control inputsignals fed back from the secondary-side controller 16.

The PD device 4 according to the fourth embodiment may include an outputcapacitor C_(o) connected between the VBUS output and the secondary-sidecontroller 16, as shown in FIG. 40.

Moreover, as shown in FIG. 40, the PD device 4 according to the fourthembodiment may include a power output circuit 130 connected to theprimary-side controller 30, the power output circuit 130 configured tosupply output voltages to a plurality of VBUS outputs disposed in pairswith the plurality of the control inputs. In this context, the poweroutput circuit 130 may include a plurality of DC/DC converters in thesame manner as the configuration shown in FIG. 3.

Moreover, as shown in FIG. 40, there maybe included a plurality ofcontrol terminals CT1, CT2, . . . , CTn, and a plurality of the controlinputs may be coupled to the plurality of the controls terminals CT1,CT2, . . . , CTn. Moreover, a control output signal of the PD device 4according to the fourth embodiment can be output to an externalapparatus through the plurality of the control terminals CT1, CT2, . . ., CTn.

Although PDDET1 and PDDET2 from USB receptacle are described on thesecondary-side controller 16, the PDDET1 and PDDET2 may be omitted.

In the PD device 4 according to the fourth embodiment, the DC/DCconverter 13 is a diode rectification type converter. More specifically,the DC/DC converter 13 includes: a transformer 15; a first MOStransistor Q1 and a current sensing resistor RS each connected in seriesbetween the primary-side inductance L1 of the transformer 15 and groundpotential; a diode D1 connected between the secondary-side inductance L2of the transformer 15 and the output; and a first capacitor C1 connectedbetween the output and the ground potential.

Moreover, in the PD device 4 according to the fourth embodiment, thesecondary-side controller 16 can execute a frequency conversion, a DClevel conversion, or an amplitude level conversion, for example.

According to the fourth embodiment, there can be provided the PD devicecapable of switching with respect to the plurality of apparatuses, andcapable of controlling the output voltage value and the available outputcurrent value (MAX value).

Fifth Embodiment

As shown in FIG. 41, a PD device 4 according to the fifth embodimentincludes an AC/DC converter connected to an AC input, the AC/DCconverter 300 composed of a fuse 11, a choke coil 12, a dioderectification bridge 14, capacitors C5, C6, C3, instead of the powersource supply circuit 10 as in the first embodiment.

Moreover, there are included an auxiliary inductance L4 including theprimary-side auxiliary winding in the transformer 15, and a diode D2 anda capacitor C4 connected in parallel to the auxiliary inductance L4therein, and the DC voltage VCC is supplied from the capacitor C4 to theprimary-side controller 30.

As shown in FIG. 41, the PD device 4 according to the fifth embodimentincludes: a DC/DC converter 13 disposed between an input (DC output ofthe AC/DC converter) and a VBUS output; a primary-side controller 30configured to control an input current of the DC/DC converter 13; and asecondary-side controller 16 coupled to a plurality of control inputs,the secondary-side controller 16 configured to executed a signalconversion of control input signals of the plurality of the controlinputs, and configured to feed back the control input signals subjectedto the signal conversion to the primary-side controller 30. In thiscontext, the primary-side controller 30 varies an output voltage valueand an available output current value (MAX value) of the DC/DC converter13 by controlling the input current on the basis of the control inputsignals fed back from the secondary-side controller 16.

The PD device 4 according to the fifth embodiment may include an outputcapacitor C_(o) connected between the VBUS output and the secondary-sidecontroller 16, as shown in FIG. 41.

Moreover, as shown in FIG. 41, the PD device 4 according to the fifthembodiment may include a power output circuit 130 connected to theprimary-side controller 30, the power output circuit 130 configured tosupply output voltages to a plurality of VBUS outputs disposed in pairswith the plurality of the control inputs. In this context, the poweroutput circuit 130 may include a plurality of DC/DC converters in thesame manner as the configuration shown in FIG. 3.

Moreover, as shown in FIG. 41, there maybe included a plurality ofcontrol terminals CT1, CT2, . . . , CTn, and a plurality of the controlinputs may be coupled to the plurality of the controls terminals CT1,CT2, . . . , CTn. Moreover, a control output signal of the PD device 4according to the fifth embodiment can be output to an external apparatusthrough the plurality of the control terminals CT1, CT2, . . . , CTn.

Although PDDET1 and PDDET2 from USB receptacle are described on thesecondary-side controller 16, the PDDET1 and PDDET2 may be omitted.

In the PD device 4 according to the fifth embodiment, the DC/DCconverter 13 is a diode rectification type converter. More specifically,the DC/DC converter 13 includes: a transformer 15; a first MOStransistor Q1 and a current sensing resistor RS each connected in seriesbetween the primary-side inductance L1 of the transformer 15 and groundpotential; a diode D1 connected between the secondary-side inductance L2of the transformer 15 and the output; and a first capacitor C1 connectedbetween the output and the ground potential.

Moreover, as shown in FIG. 41, the PD device 4 according to the fifthembodiment may include the insulation circuit 20 connected to thesecondary-side controller 16, the insulation circuit 20 configured tofeed back the control input signals to the primary-side controller 30.

Moreover, as shown in FIG. 41, the PD device 4 according to the fifthembodiment may include the error amplifier for error compensationconnected to the secondary-side controller 16, the error amplifier 21configured to feed back the control input signals to the insulationcircuit 20. In this context, as shown in FIG. 41, the error amplifier 21includes discrete components, e.g. a power amplifier 44, a diode D3, andresistors R5 and R6.

Moreover, in the PD device 4 according to the fifth embodiment, thesecondary-side controller 16 can execute a frequency conversion, a DClevel conversion, or an amplitude level conversion, for example.

Moreover, as shown in FIG. 41, the PD device 4 according to the fifthembodiment may include a MOS switch Q_(SW) connected to the output ofthe DC/DC converter 13 and configured to interrupt an output voltage ofthe DC/DC converter 13. The output of the DC/DC converter 13 and thepower line output (VBUS) can be interrupted by the MOS switch Q_(SW).ON/OFF control for the MOS switch Q_(SW) can be executed by thesecondary-side controller 16. Other configurations are the same as thoseof the second embodiment.

According to the fifth embodiment, there can be provided the PD devicecapable of switching with respect to the plurality of apparatuses, andcapable of controlling the output voltage value and the available outputcurrent value (MAX value).

Sixth Embodiment

As shown in FIG. 42, a PD device 4 according to a sixth embodimentincludes an AC/DC converter connected to an AC input, the AC/DCconverter 300 composed of a fuse 11, a choke coil 12, a dioderectification bridge 14, capacitors C5, C6, C3, instead of the powersource supply circuit 10 as in the third embodiment.

Moreover, there are included an auxiliary inductance L4 including theprimary-side auxiliary winding in the transformer 15, and a diode D2 anda capacitor C4 connected in parallel to the auxiliary inductance L4therein, and the DC voltage VCC is supplied from the capacitor C4 to theprimary-side controller 30.

As shown in FIG. 42, the PD device 4 according to the sixth embodimentincludes: a DC/DC converter 13 disposed between an input (DC output ofthe AC/DC converter) and a VBUS output; a primary-side controller 30configured to control an input current of the DC/DC converter 13; and asecondary-side controller 16 coupled to a plurality of control inputs,the secondary-side controller 16 configured to executed a signalconversion of control input signals of the plurality of the controlinputs, and configured to feed back the control input signals subjectedto the signal conversion to the primary-side controller 30. In thiscontext, the primary-side controller 30 varies an output voltage valueand an available output current value (MAX value) of the DC/DC converter13 by controlling the input current on the basis of the control inputsignals fed back from the secondary-side controller 16.

The PD device 4 according to the sixth embodiment may include an outputcapacitor C_(o) connected between the VBUS output and the secondary-sidecontroller 16, as shown in FIG. 42.

Moreover, as shown in FIG. 42, the PD device 4 according to the sixthembodiment may include a power output circuit 130 connected to theprimary-side controller 30, the power output circuit 130 configured tosupply output voltages to a plurality of VBUS outputs disposed in pairswith the plurality of the control inputs. In this context, the poweroutput circuit 130 may include a plurality of DC/DC converters in thesame manner as the configuration shown in FIG. 3.

Moreover, as shown in FIG. 42, there maybe included a plurality ofcontrol terminals CT1, CT2, . . . , CTn, and a plurality of the controlinputs may be coupled to the plurality of the controls terminals CT1,CT2, . . . , CTn. Moreover, a control output signal of the PD device 4according to the sixth embodiment can be output to an external apparatusthrough the plurality of the control terminals CT1, CT2, . . . , CTn.

Although PDDET1 and PDDET2 from USB receptacle are described on thesecondary-side controller 16, the PDDET1 and PDDET2 may be omitted.

In the PD device 4 according to the sixth embodiment, the DC/DCconverter 13 is a synchronous rectification type converter. Morespecifically, the DC/DC converter 13 includes: a transformer 15; a firstMOS transistor Q1 and a current sensing resistor RS each connected inseries between the primary-side inductance L1 of the transformer 15 andground potential; a second MOS transistor M1 connected between thesecondary-side inductance L2 of the transformer 15 and the output; and afirst capacitor C1 connected between the output and the groundpotential.

Moreover, in the PD device 4 according to the sixth embodiment, thesecondary-side controller 16 can execute a frequency conversion, a DClevel conversion, or an amplitude level conversion, for example.

In the PD device 4 according to the sixth embodiment, since thesynchronous rectification method is adopted for the DC/DC converter,instead of the diode rectification system, and thereby DC/DC powerconversion efficiency can be increased, compared with the second,fourth, and fifth embodiments adapting the diode rectification system.Other configurations are the same as those of the third embodiment.

According to the sixth embodiment, there can be provided the PD devicecapable of switching with respect to the plurality of apparatuses, andcapable of controlling the output voltage value and the available outputcurrent value (MAX value).

Seventh Embodiment

As shown in FIG. 43, a PD device 4 according to a seventh embodimentincludes an AC/DC converter connected to an AC input, the AC/DCconverter 300 composed of a fuse 11, a choke coil 12, a dioderectification bridge 14, capacitors C5, C6, C3, instead of the powersource supply circuit 10 as in the third embodiment, in the same manneras the sixth embodiment.

Moreover, there are included an auxiliary inductance L4 including theprimary-side auxiliary winding in the transformer 15, and a diode D2 anda capacitor C4 connected in parallel to the auxiliary inductance L4therein, and the DC voltage VCC is supplied from the capacitor C4 to theprimary-side controller 30.

As shown in FIG. 43, the PD device 4 according to the seventh embodimentincludes: a DC/DC converter 13 disposed between an input (DC output ofthe AC/DC converter) and a VBUS output; a primary-side controller 30configured to control an input current of the DC/DC converter 13; and asecondary-side controller 16 coupled to a plurality of control inputs,the secondary-side controller 16 configured to executed a signalconversion of control input signals of the plurality of the controlinputs, and configured to feed back the control input signals subjectedto the signal conversion to the primary-side controller 30. In thiscontext, the primary-side controller 30 varies an output voltage valueand an available output current value (MAX value) of the DC/DC converter13 by controlling the input current on the basis of the control inputsignals fed back from the secondary-side controller 16.

The PD device 4 according to the sixth embodiment may include an outputcapacitor C_(o) connected between the VBUS output and the secondary-sidecontroller 16, as shown in FIG. 43.

Moreover, as shown in FIG. 43, the PD device 4 according to the seventhembodiment may include a power output circuit 130 connected to theprimary-side controller 30, the power output circuit 130 configured tosupply output voltages to a plurality of VBUS outputs disposed in pairswith the plurality of the control inputs. In this context, the poweroutput circuit 130 may include a plurality of DC/DC converters in thesame manner as the configuration shown in FIG. 3.

Moreover, as shown in FIG. 43, there maybe included a plurality ofcontrol terminals CT1, CT2, . . . , CTn, and a plurality of the controlinputs may be coupled to the plurality of the controls terminals CT1,CT2, . . . , CTn. Moreover, a control output signal of the PD device 4according to the seventh embodiment can be output to an externalapparatus through the plurality of the control terminals CT1, CT2, . . ., CTn.

Although PDDET1 and PDDET2 are described on the secondary-sidecontroller 16, the PDDET1 and PDDET2 may be omitted.

In the PD device 4 according to the seventh embodiment, the DC/DCconverter 13 is a synchronous rectification type converter. Morespecifically, the DC/DC converter 13 includes: a transformer 15; a firstMOS transistor Q1 and a current sensing resistor RS each connected inseries between the primary-side inductance L1 of the transformer 15 andground potential; a second MOS transistor M1 connected between thesecondary-side inductance L2 of the transformer 15 and the output; and afirst capacitor C1 connected between the output and the groundpotential.

Moreover, as shown in FIG. 43, the PD device 4 according to the seventhembodiment may include the insulation circuit 20 connected to thesecondary-side controller 16, the insulation circuit 20 configured tofeed back the control input signals to the primary-side controller 30.

Moreover, as shown in FIG. 43, the PD device 4 according to the seventhembodiment may include the error amplifier 21 for error compensationconnected to the secondary-side controller 16 and configured to feedback the control input signals to the insulation circuit 20. In thiscontext, as shown in FIG. 43, the error amplifier 21 includes discretecomponents, e.g. a power amplifier 44, a diode D3, and resistors R5 andR6.

Moreover, in the PD device 4 according to the seventh embodiment, thesecondary-side controller 16 can execute a frequency conversion, a DClevel conversion, or an amplitude level conversion, for example.

In the PD device 4 according to the seventh embodiment, since thesynchronous rectification method is adopted for the DC/DC converter,instead of the diode rectification system, and thereby DC/DC powerconversion efficiency can be increased, compared with the second,fourth, and fifth embodiments adapting the diode rectification system.

Moreover, as shown in FIG. 43, the PD device 4 according to the seventhembodiment may include a MOS switch Q_(SW) connected to the output ofthe DC/DC converter 13 and configured to interrupt an output voltage ofthe DC/DC converter 13. The output of the DC/DC converter 13 and thepower line output (VBUS) can be interrupted by the MOS switch Q_(SW).ON/OFF control for the MOS switch Q_(SW) can be executed by thesecondary-side controller 16. Other configurations are the same as thoseof the sixth embodiment.

According to the seventh embodiment, there can be provided the PD devicecapable of switching with respect to the plurality of apparatuses, andcapable of controlling the output voltage value and the available outputcurrent value (MAX value).

(MOS Switch)

As shown in FIG. 44, a schematic circuit block configuration example ofa switch SW applicable to the PD device 4 according to the firstembodiment, or a MOS switch Q_(SW) applicable to the PD device accordingto the second, third, fifth or seventh embodiment includes: twon-channel MOSFETs Q_(n1) and Q_(n2) connected to each other in series;and MOSFETs Q_(D1) and Q_(D2) for discharging respectively connected toboth ends of the n channel MOSFETs Q_(n) 1 and Q_(n) 2 connected to eachother in series.

In the PD device 4 according to the first to seventh embodiments, eachgate of the two n-channel MOSFETs Q_(n1) and Q_(n2) connected to eachother in series is connected to the secondary-side controller 16, andON/OFF of MOSFETs Q_(n1) and Q_(n2) is controlled by the secondary-sidecontroller 16. A voltage and current control circuit 17 may be containedin the secondary-side controller 16.

(AC Adapter/AC Charger)

The PD device 4 according to the first to eighth embodiments can becontained in AC adapters/AC chargers 3, as shown in FIGS. 45 to 50.

In examples of wire connection for connecting a plug 2 capable of beingconnected to an outlet 1 to the AC adapter/AC charger 3 using a cable,FIG. 45A shows an example of connecting the secondary-side controller 16in the AC adapter/AC charger 3 to external plugs 2A and 2B, and FIG. 45Bshows another example thereof.

In FIG. 45A, a control input signal of USB PD 4U and a control inputsignal of the PD device (PD) 4 according to the embodiments can beswitched by the secondary-side controller 16. The secondary-sidecontroller 16 can be contained in the PD device (PD) 4.

In FIG. 45A, the secondary-side controller 16 and the plug 2A areconnected to each other by a power line POL, and the secondary-sidecontroller 16 and the plug 2B are connected to each other by a powerline POL and a communication dedicated line COL.

Each of the USB PD 4U and the PD device (PD) 4 can be bidirectionallyconnected to the secondary-side controller 16, as shown in FIG. 45A. InFIG. 45B, the control input signal of USB PD 4U and the control inputsignal of the PD device (PD) 4 according to the embodiments can beswitched by a plurality of secondary-side controllers 16 ₁ and 16 ₂. Thesecondary-side controllers 16 ₁ and 16 ₂ can be respectively containedin the USB PD 4U and the PD device (PD) 4.

In FIG. 45B, the secondary-side controller 16 ₁ and the plug 2A areconnected to each other by a power line POL, and the secondary-sidecontroller 16 ₂ and the plug 2B are connected to each other by a powerline POL and a communication dedicated line COL.

The USB PD 4U and the PD device (PD) 4 can be bidirectionally andrespectively connected to the secondary-side controllers 16 ₁ and 16 ₂,as shown in FIG. 45B.

One or a plurality of the secondary-side controllers 16 can be containedin the AC adapter/AC charger 3. In the AC adapter/AC charger 3simultaneously including the USB PD 4U and the PD device (PD) 4, thenumber of extraction of the outputs can be variously selected, throughsuch a signal conversion and switching circuit operation. For example,it is possible to set a ratio of the number of extraction in the USB PD4U and the PD device (PD) 4 as 1:N, 1:1, or N:1, where N is an integergreater than or equal to 2.

In examples of containing the plug 2 capable of being connected to theoutlet 1 in the AC adapter/AC charger 3, FIG. 46A shows an example ofincluding the USB PD 4U and the PD device (PD) 4 according to theembodiments in the AC adapter/AC charger 3, and FIG. 46B shows anexample of connecting external plugs 2A, 2B to receptacles 41UR, 41Rcontained in the AC adapter/AC charger 3.

In FIG. 46A, the control input signal of the USB PD 4U and the controlinput signal of the PD device (PD) 4 can be switched by thesecondary-side controllers 16 ₁ and 16 ₂. The secondary-side controllers16 ₁ and 16 ₂ can be respectively contained in the USB PD 4U and the PDdevice (PD) 4.

The USB PD 4U and the PD device (PD) 4 can be bidirectionally andrespectively connected to the secondary-side controllers 16 ₁ and 16 ₂,as shown in FIG. 46A.

In FIG. 46B, the control input signal of the receptacle 41UR used forthe USB PD 4U and the control input signal of the receptacle 41R usedfor the PD device (PD) 4 can be switched by the plurality of thesecondary-side controllers 16 ₁ and 16 ₂.

The receptacle 41UR and the plug 2A are connected to each other by thepower line POL. The receptacle 41R and the plug 2B are connected to eachother by the power line POL and the communication dedicated line COL.

The secondary-side controllers 16 ₁ and 16 ₂ can be respectively andbidirectionally connected to the receptacles 41UR, 41R, as shown in FIG.46B.

As shown in FIG. 47A, the AC adapter/AC charger 3 containing the PDdevice (PD) 4 according to the embodiments can be connected to the plug2 connectable to the outlet 1 using a cable, and can be connected to theplug 5 disposed an outside of the AC adapter/AC charger 3. Thesecondary-side controller 16 and the plug 5 are connected to each otherby the power line POL and the communication dedicated line COL. In FIG.47A, the control input signal of the PD device (PD) 4 can be switched bythe secondary-side controller 16. The secondary-side controller 16 canbe contained in the PD device (PD) 4.

Moreover, as shown in FIG. 47B, the AC adapter/AC charger 3 containingthe PD device according to the embodiments can be connected to the plug2 connectable to the outlet 1 using a cable, and may include thereceptacle 41R used for the PD device (PD) 4 and the secondary-sidecontroller 16. In FIG. 47B, the control input signal of the receptacle41R for the PD device (PD) 4 can be switched by the secondary-sidecontroller 16.

Moreover, as shown in FIG. 47C, the AC adapter/AC charger 3 containingthe PD device according to the embodiments can be connected to the plug2 connectable to the outlet 1 using a cable, and may include a plug 41P.The plug 41P can be connected to the plug 5 disposed at the outsidethereof. The plug 41P and the plug 5 are connected to each other by thepower line POL and the communication dedicated line COL. In FIG. 47C,the control input signal of the plug 41P for the PD device (PD) 4 can beswitched by the secondary-side controller 16.

Moreover, as shown in FIG. 48A, the AC adapter/AC charger 3 containingthe PD device (PD) 4 according to the embodiments can be connected tothe plug 2 connectable to the outlet 1 using a USB PD cable 6, and canalso be connected to the plug 5 disposed at the outside of the ACadapter/AC charger 3. The secondary-side controller 16 and the plug 5are connected to each other by the power line POL and the communicationdedicated line COL. In FIG. 48A, the control input signal of the PDdevice (PD) 4 can be switched by the secondary-side controller 16. Thesecondary-side controller 16 can be contained in the PD device (PD) 4.

Moreover, as shown in FIG. 48B, the AC adapter/AC charger 3 containingthe PD device according to the embodiments can be connected to the plug2 connectable to the outlet 1 using the USB PD cable 6, and may alsoinclude a receptacle 41R. In FIG. 48B, the control input signal of thereceptacle 41R for the PD device (PD) 4 can be switched by thesecondary-side controller 16.

Moreover, as shown in FIG. 48C, the AC adapter/AC charger 3 containingthe PD device according to the embodiments may be connected to the plug2 connectable to the outlet 1 using the USB PD cable 6, and may alsoinclude a plug 41P. The plug 41P can be connected to the plug 5 disposedat the outside thereof. The plug 41P and the plug 5 are connected toeach other by the power line POL and the communication dedicated lineCOL. In FIG. 48C, the control input signal of the plug 41P for the PDdevice (PD) 4 can be switched by the secondary-side controller 16.

Moreover, the plug 2 connectable to the outlet 1 may be contained in theAC adapter/AC charger 3 including the PD device according to theembodiments, as shown in FIGS. 49A to 49C.

As shown in FIG. 49A, the AC adapter/AC charger 3 containing the PDdevice (PD) 4 according to the embodiments and the plug 2 can beconnected to the plug 5 disposed at the outside thereof. Thesecondary-side controller 16 and the plug 5 are connected to each otherby the power line POL and the communication dedicated line COL. In FIG.49A, the control input signal of the PD device (PD) 4 can be switched bythe secondary-side controller 16. The secondary-side controller 16 canbe contained in the PD device (PD) 4.

Moreover, the AC adapter/AC charger 3 containing the PD device accordingto the embodiments and the plug 2 may include the receptacle 41R, asshown in FIG. 49B. In FIG. 49B, the control input signal of thereceptacle 41R for the PD device (PD) 4 can be switched by thesecondary-side controller 16.

Moreover, the AC adapter/AC charger 3 containing the PD device accordingto the embodiments and the plug 2 may include the plug 41P, as shown inFIG. 49C. The plug 41P can be connected to the plug 5 disposed at theoutside thereof. The plug 41P and the plug 5 are connected to each otherby the power line POL and the communication dedicated line COL. In FIG.49C, the control input signal of the plug 41P for the PD device (PD) 4can be switched by the secondary-side controller 16.

A plurality of the PD devices according to the embodiments can becontained in the AC adapter/AC charger 3, as shown in FIGS. 50A to 50C.Moreover, the plug 2 connectable to the outlet 1 is also containedtherein.

As shown in FIG. 50A, the AC adapter/AC charger 3 containing a pluralityof the PD devices (PD) 41 and 42 according to the embodiments and theplug 2 can be respectively connected to a plurality of the plugs 51 and52 disposed at the outside thereof. The secondary-side controller 16 andthe plugs 51 and 52 are connected to each other by the power line POLand the communication dedicated line COL. In FIG. 50A, the control inputsignals of the PD devices (PD) 41 and 42 can be switched by thesecondary-side controller 16. The secondary-side controller 16 can becontain in the PD devices (PD) 41 and 42.

Moreover, the AC adapter/AC charger 3 containing the plurality of the PDdevices (PD) 41 and 42 according to the embodiments, and the plug 2 mayinclude receptacles 41R and 42R, as shown in FIG. 50B. In FIG. 50B, thecontrol input signals of the receptacles 41R and 42R for the PD devices(PD) 41 and 42 can be switched by the secondary-side controller 16.

Moreover, the AC adapter/AC charger 3 containing the plurality of the PDdevices (PD) 41 and 42 according to the embodiments and the plug 2 mayinclude plugs 41P and 42P, as shown in FIG. 50C. The plugs 41P and 42Pcan be respectively connected to the plugs 51 and 52 disposed at theoutside thereof. The plugs 41P and 42P and the plugs 51 and 52 arerespectively connected to each other by the power line POL and thecommunication dedicated line COL. In FIG. 50C, the control input signalsof the plugs 41P and 42P for the PD devices (PD) 41 and 42 can beswitched by the secondary-side controller 16.

(Electronic Apparatus)

As shown in FIGS. 51 to 52, the PD device according to the first toseventh embodiments can be contained in an electronic apparatus 7. As anelectronic apparatus, there are applicable various apparatus, e.g.monitors, external hard disk drives, set top boxes, laptop PCs, tabletPCs, smartphones, battery charger systems, personal computers (PCs),docking stations, display apparatuses, printers, cleaners,refrigerators, facsimiles, telephones, car navigation systems, carcomputers, television sets, spectacles, head-mounted displays, fans,air-conditioners, laser displays, or wall outlets, for example.

FIG. 51A shows an example of including internal circuits 71 and 72respectively containing the PD devices 41 and 42 and the receptacles 41Rand 42R in electronic apparatus 7, in an example of wire connection forconnecting the electronic apparatus 7 to the plug 2 capable of beingconnected to the outlet 1 using a cable.

Moreover, FIG. 51B shows an example of containing the plug 2 connectableto the outlet 1 in the electronic apparatus 7, and also includinginternal circuits 71 and 72 respectively containing the PD devices 41and 42 and the receptacles 41R and 42R in the electronic apparatus 7.

In FIGS. 51A and 51B, the receptacles 41R and 42R are connected to eachother by the power line POL and the communication dedicated line COL. InFIGS. 51A and 51B, the control input signals of the receptacles 41R and42R for the PD devices (PD) 41 and 42 can be switched by thesecondary-side controller 16.

FIG. 52A shows an example of including the receptacle 43R connected tothe outside thereof in one internal circuit 72, in an example ofcontaining the plug 2 connectable to the outlet 1 in the electronicapparatus 7, and also including internal circuits 71, 72 respectivelycontaining the PD devices 41, 42 and the receptacles 41R, 42R in theelectronic apparatus 7.

Moreover, FIG. 52B shows an example of including a plurality of thereceptacles 43R, 44R connected to the outside thereof in one internalcircuit 72, in an example of containing the plug 2 connectable to theoutlet 1 in the electronic apparatus 7, and also including internalcircuits 71, 72 respectively containing the PD devices 41, 42 and thereceptacles 41R, 42R in the electronic apparatus 7.

Also in FIGS. 52A and 52B, the receptacles 41R and 42R can be connectedto each other by the power line POL and the communication dedicated lineCOL. Moreover, in FIGS. 52A and 52B, the control input signals of thereceptacles 41R and 42R for the PD devices (PD) 41 and 42 can beswitched by the secondary-side controller 16.

(Protection Function)

FIG. 53A shows an explanatory diagram of a protection function for thePD device 4 according to the embodiments in a case of using a smartphone160 as a connecting target, and FIG. 53B shows an explanatory diagram ofthe protection function for the PD device 4 according to the embodimentsin a case of using a laptop PC 140 as a connecting target.

As shown in FIGS. 53A and 53B, the PD device 4 according to theembodiments may include: a primary-side OverPower Protecting circuit(OPP1) (81, 83); and a secondary-side OverPower Protecting circuit(OPP2) (82, 84) connected to the primary-side overpower protectingcircuit (OPP1) (81, 83). The primary-side overpower protecting circuit(OPP1) (81, 83) is connected to a primary-side controller (not shown).Moreover, the primary-side overpower protecting circuit (OPP1) (81, 83)may be contained in the primary-side controller. The secondary-sideoverpower protecting circuit (OPP2) (82, 84) is connected to thesecondary-side controller 16.

Moreover, as shown in FIGS. 53A and 53B, the receptacle 41R and theconnecting target (e.g., the smartphone 160 and the laptop PC 140) areconnected to each other by the power line POL and the communicationdedicated line COL. The control input signal of the receptacle 41R forthe PD devices (PD) 41 and 42 can be switched by the secondary-sidecontroller 16 connected to the receptacle 41R.

In accordance with target equipment (target sets) connected to thereceptacle 41R, electric power information and communication controlinformation in the receptacle 41R are transmitted to the secondary-sideoverpower protecting circuit (OPP2) (82, 84) from the secondary-sidecontroller 16, and then the secondary-side overpower protecting circuit(OPP2) (82, 84) transmits the aforementioned electric power informationand communication control information to the primary-side overpowerprotecting circuit (OPP1) (81, 83). Consequently, an overcurrentdetecting set value can be changed in accordance with the targetequipment (target sets) connected to the receptacle 41R, therebyexecuting power change of the DC/DC converter 13.

Any of the primary-side overpower protecting circuit (OPP1) 81 and thesecondary-side overpower protecting circuit (OPP2) 82 may determinewhether the electric power information and communication controlinformation in the receptacle 41R exceeds the overcurrent detecting setvalue.

If it is determined that the electric power information andcommunication control information in the receptacle 41R exceed theovercurrent (overpower) detecting set value, the primary-side overpowerprotecting circuit (OPP1) (81, 83) transmits an overcurrent (overpower)protecting control signal to the primary-side controller (not shown),thereby executing the change for controlling the electric power in theDC/DC converter 13.

Various functions, e.g. Over Current Protection (OCP), Over PowerProtection (OPP), Over Voltage Protection (OVP), Over Load Protection(OLP), and Thermal Shut Down (TSD), are applicable to the PD device 4according to the embodiments.

The PD device 4 according to the embodiments includes a sensor (SENSOR)protection function for executing protection corresponding to thecharacteristics of a certain sensor element connected to theprimary-side controller (not shown), for example.

When the overcurrent (overpower) detecting set value is changed in thePD device 4 according to the embodiments, the electric power informationand communication control information in the receptacle 41R aretransmitted to the primary-side overpower protecting circuit (OPP1) (81,83) through the secondary-side controller 16 and the secondary-sideoverpower protecting circuit (OPP2) (82, 84), as mentioned above.Consequently, an overcurrent detecting set value can be changed inaccordance with the target equipment (target sets) connected to thereceptacle 41R, thereby executing power change of the DC/DC converter13.

Moreover, when the overcurrent (overpower) detecting set value ischanged in the PD device 4 according to the embodiments, the electricpower information and communication control information in thereceptacle 41R may be directly transmitted to the primary-side overpowerprotecting circuit (OPP1) (81, 83) from the secondary-side controller16, thereby directly changing the set value in the primary-sideoverpower protecting circuit (OPP1) (81, 83).

Moreover, the electric power information may be directly transmitted tothe primary-side overpower protecting circuit (OPP1) (81, 83) from theoutside of the PD device 4 according to the embodiments.

Thus, according to the PD device 4 according to the embodiments, it ispossible to change the PD level in accordance with the target equipment(target sets) connected to the receptacle 41R, in the primary-sideoverpower protecting circuit (OPP1) (81, 83). Consequently, adestruction of the target equipment (target sets) can be prevented underan abnormal state.

When using a smartphone 160 as a connecting target, with respect to thesmartphone 160 (the amount of power 5V·1 A=5 W), if the electric powerinformation and communication control information of 7 W is transmittedto the secondary-side overpower protecting circuit (OPP2) 82 from thesecondary-side controller 16, for example, the electric powerinformation and communication control information of 7 W is transmittedto the primary-side overpower protecting circuit (OPP1) 81 from thesecondary-side overpower protecting circuit (OPP2) 82, and then theovercurrent (overpower) detecting set value is changed (SW) from 7 W upto 10 W in the primary-side overpower protecting circuit (OPP1) 81.Consequently, the electric power up to 10 W can be transmitted, in theDC/DC converter in the PD device 4 according to the embodiments.

When using a laptop PC 140 as a connecting target, with respect to thelaptop PC 140 (the amount of power 20V·3 A=60 W), if the electric powerinformation and communication control information of 80 W is transmittedto the secondary-side overpower protecting circuit (OPP2) 84 from thesecondary-side controller 16, for example, the electric powerinformation and communication control information of 80 W is transmittedto the primary-side overpower protecting circuit (OPP1) 83 from thesecondary-side overpower protecting circuit (OPP2) 84, and then theovercurrent (overpower) detecting set value is changed (SW) from 80 W upto 100 W in the primary-side overpower protecting circuit (OPP1) 83.Consequently, the electric power up to 100 W can be transmitted, in theDC/DC converter in the PD device 4 according to the embodiments.

(Receptacle/Plug)

As shown in FIG. 54, the PD device 85 according to the embodimentsapplicable to the AC adapter, the AC charger, the electronic apparatus,and the docking station in which the receptacle is mounted can beconnected an outlet having AC power sources 100V-115V, and a plugconnected to the power line POL and the communication dedicated line COLcan be inserted thereinto. An example of a plug structure is shown inFIG. 27A or 57.

The power line POL can be connected to any of an upper-side powerterminal PU and a lower-side power terminal PD of the receptacle, andthe communication dedicated line COL can be connected to any of anupper-side communication terminal CU and a lower-side communicationterminal CD of the receptacle.

The electric power information can be transmitted through the power linePOL, and the communication control information can be transmittedthrough the communication dedicated line COL. As shown in FIG. 54, ThePD device 85 applicable to the AC adapter, the AC charger, and theelectronic apparatus in which the PD device according to the embodimentsis mounted can be connected to any of the power terminals PU, PD and thecommunication terminals CU, CD, and there is no need to select the upperor lower side (front or back two surfaces) of the corresponding plug,and therefore convenience in use is effective. In the embodiments, anupper-side power terminal PU and a lower-side power terminal PD of thereceptacle respectively correspond to an upper-side VBUS terminal and alower-side VBUS terminal of the receptacle 41R (42R) shown in FIGS. 24and 25. Moreover, an upper-side communication terminal CU and alower-side communication terminal CD of the receptacle respectivelycorrespond to an upper-side communication terminal CC1 (CC2) and alower-side communication terminal CC1 (CC2) of the receptacle 41R (42R)shown in FIGS. 24 and 25. Note that an illustration of other terminalsis omitted, for the purpose of simplified displaying.

Moreover, as shown in FIG. 55, the PD device 86 according to theembodiments applicable to the AC adapter, the AC charger, the electronicapparatus, and the docking station in which the receptacle is mountedcan be connected an outlet having AC power sources 230V, and a plugconnected to the power line POL and the communication dedicated line COLcan be inserted thereinto. An example of a plug structure is shown inFIG. 27A or 57.

Moreover, as shown in FIG. 56, the PD device 87 according to theembodiments applicable to the AC adapter, the AC charger, and theelectronic apparatus in which the receptacle is mounted can be connectedan outlet having AC power sources 100V-115V, and a plurality of plugsconnected to the power line POL and the communication dedicated line COLcan be inserted thereinto. An example of a plug structure is shown inFIG. 27A or 57.

One or a plurality of secondary-side controllers can be contained in theAC adapter, the AC charger, the electronic apparatus, and the dockingstation. By such a signal conversion circuit and switching operationexecuted by the secondary-side controllers, the number of extraction ofthe outputs of the PD devices 85, 86, and 87 can be variously selected.For example, it is possible to set a ratio of the number of extractionas 1:N, 1:1, or N:1, where N is an integer greater than or equal to 2.Moreover, it is also possible to use in conjunction with the USB PDreceptacle.

Moreover, as shown in FIG. 57, the PD device 88 according to theembodiments applicable to the AC adapter, the AC charger, and theelectronic apparatus in which the plug 2 is mounted can be connected anoutlet having AC power sources 100V-115V, and an outlet having AC powersources 230V. The plug 2 is synonymous with configurations shown inFIGS. 45A and 45B, 46B, 47A and 47C, 48A and 48C, 49A and 49C, and 50Aand 50C. Moreover, the plug 2 may be applicable also to the USB PD.

(A Plurality of Connecting Targets)

FIG. 58 shows a schematic circuit block configuration of the PD deviceaccording to the embodiments connected to a plurality of connectingtargets through a plurality of the receptacles. In FIG. 58, thesecondary-side controller 16 is connected to a smartphone 160, a laptopPC 140, and a tablet PC 150 which are connecting targets respectivelythrough the receptacles 41R1, 41R2, and 41R3. The power line POL and thecommunication dedicated line COL are connected to between thereceptacles 41R1, 41R2, and 41R3 and the smartphone 160, the laptop PC140, and the tablet PC 150. The power line POL is controlled to beswitched by a switch SW_(C) controllable by the secondary-sidecontroller 16, and is connected to the power line output (VBUS). Acontrol input signal from the smartphone 160, the laptop PC 140, and thetablet PC 150 to the PD device 4, and a control output signal from thePD device according to the embodiments to the smartphone 160, the laptopPC 140, and the tablet PC 150 can be transmitted on the communicationdedicated line COL.

FIG. 59 shows a schematic bird's-eye view structure example of the PDdevice 89 according to the embodiments applicable to the AC adapter, theAC charger, the electronic apparatus, and the docking station in which aplurality of receptacles 41R1, 41R2, 41R3, and 41R4 are mounted. In anexample of FIG. 59, four receptacles 41R1, 41R2, 41R3, and 41R4 can beconnected thereto, and can be manually switched by a switch 89S. Thereceptacles 41R1, 41R2, and 41R3 shown in FIG. 58 respectivelycorrespond to the receptacles 41R1, 41R2, and 41R3 shown in FIG. 59.Moreover, although the example of providing four pieces of thereceptacles 41R1, 41R2, 41R3, and 41R4 is shown in FIG. 59, it is alsoadaptable to an arbitrary number of pieces, e.g. two pieces, or sixpieces, of the receptacles.

(USB PD Communications)

FIG. 60 shows a schematic circuit block configuration for explaining anexample of using control input output signals for a USB PBcommunications between a plurality of the PD devices according to theembodiments.

In the first PD device, as shown in FIG. 60, the secondary-sidecontroller 16 ₁ is connected to the control terminal CT1 through thecoupling capacitor C_(c). An Illustration of other configurations areomitted.

In the second PD device, as shown in FIG. 60, the secondary-sidecontroller 16 ₂ is connected to the control terminal CT2 through thecoupling capacitor C_(c). An Illustration of other configurations areomitted. In addition, the secondary-side controllers 16 ₁ and 16 ₂ maybe respectively connected to the control terminals CT1 and CT2 throughthe AC coupling capacitors. Moreover, an output capacitor C_(o) isconnected between the power line POL (VBUS output) and thesecondary-side controllers 16 ₁ and 16 ₂ (illustration is omitted).

In the USB PD communications, the control terminals CT1 and CT2 areconnected to each other by the power line POL.

(PD System)

In the PD system to which the PD device according to the embodiments canbe applied, a source of electric power can be switched without changinga direction of the cable. For example, electric charging of a battery ina laptop PC from external devices and power transmission from a batteryor an internal PD device in the laptop PC to external devices (e.g.,display etc.) can be achieved without replacement of the cable.

Moreover, power transmission and half-duplex data communications can berealized between two units through the power line POL and thecommunication dedicated line COL.

In the PD system to which the PD device according to the embodiments canbe applied, DC power delivery (DC PD) (DC output VBUS) and datacommunications can be transmitted between the battery charger system andthe laptop PC by using the power line POL and the communicationdedicated line COL. In this context, the PD device according to theembodiments is mounted in the battery charger system and the laptop PC.

In the PD system to which the PD device according to the embodiments canbe applied, the DC power delivery (DC output VBUS) and the datacommunications can be transmitted by using the power line POL and thecommunication dedicated line COL, between the smartphone and the laptopPC. In this context, the PD device according to the embodiments ismounted in the smartphone and the laptop PC.

FIG. 61 shows a schematic block configuration for explaining the datacommunications and the electric power supply between two personalcomputers (PCs) PCA and PCB, in the PD system to which the PD deviceaccording to the embodiments can be applied. In FIG. 61, illustration ofthe DC/DC converters are omitted, but the secondary-side controllers 16Aand 16B, are shown. The PD devices according to the embodiments arerespectively mounted in the personal computers (PCs) PCA and PCB.

Moreover, an output capacitor C_(o) is connected between the power linePOL (VBUS output) and the secondary-side controllers 16A and 16B(illustration is omitted).

The personal computers (PC) PCA and PCB are connected to each otherthrough the power line POL and the communication dedicated line COL. Thecommunication dedicated line COL is connected between the controlterminals CT1 and CT2.

As shown in FIG. 61, the control terminal CT1 is connected to thecontroller 16A through the secondary-side controller 16A, and thecontrol terminal CT2 is connected to the controller 16B through thesecondary-side controller 16B. The secondary-side controllers 16A, 16Band the control terminals CT1, CT2 may be respectively connected eachother through the AC coupling capacitors. Moreover, a battery E and abattery charger IC (CHG) 53 connected to the battery E is mounted in thepersonal computer (PC) PCA, and a Power Management IC (PMIC) 54 ismounted in the personal computer (PC) PCB.

In the PD system to which the PD device according to the embodiments canbe applied, electric charging of the battery E from the personalcomputer PCB to the personal computer PCA, and power transmission of thebattery E from the personal computer PCA to the personal computer PCBcan achieved without replacement of any cable, for example.

Moreover, the secondary-side controllers 16A, 16B are respectivelyconnected to the communication dedicated lines COL, thereby realizinghalf-duplex data communications between the personal computers (PCs)PCA, PCB. In the present embodiment, the carrier frequency isapproximately 23.2 MHz, for example, and the FSK modulation/demodulationfrequency is approximately 300 kbps, for example. In the presentembodiment, the Bit Error Rate (BER) is approximately 1×10⁻⁶, and an LSIfor built-in self tests (BIST) may be included therein, for example.

FIG. 62A shows a schematic block configuration for explaining the datacommunications and the electric power supply between two units 56 and58, in the PD system to which the PD device according to the embodimentscan be applied.

The two units 56 and 58 are connected to each other by the power linePOL and the communication dedicated line COL. The power line POL and thecommunication dedicated line COL is plug-connected to the receptacles41R and 42R contained in the two units 56 and 58.

The two units 56 and 58 are arbitrary electronic apparatuses in whichthe PD devices according to the embodiments are respectively mounted. InFIG. 62A, illustration of the DC/DC converters are omitted, but thesecondary-side controllers 16A and 16B, are shown. Moreover, an outputcapacitor C_(o) is connected between the power line POL (VBUS output)and the secondary-side controllers 16A and 16B (illustration isomitted).

FIG. 62B shows a schematic block configuration of a PD system includingan AC adapter/AC charger 3 and a smartphone 160 each which contains thePD device according to the embodiments.

The AC adapter/AC charger 3 and the smartphone 160 are connected to eachother by the power line POL and the communication dedicated line COL.The power line POL and the communication dedicated line COL areplug-connected to the receptacles 41R and 42R respectively contained inthe AC adapter 3 and the smartphone 160.

The PD devices according to the embodiments are respectively mounted inthe AC adapter/AC charger 3 and the smartphone 160. In FIG. 62B,illustration of the DC/DC converters are omitted, but the secondary-sidecontrollers 16A and 16B, are shown.

The AC adapter/AC charger 3 includes the AC/DC converter 60, and thesecondary-side controller 16A. The smartphone 160 includes thesecondary-side controller 16B, an embedded type controller (EMBC) 64, aCPU 68, a PMIC 54, a battery 66, and a battery charger IC (CHG) 62.Moreover, an output capacitor C_(o) is connected between the power linePOL (VBUS output) and the secondary-side controllers 16A and 16B(illustration is omitted). Moreover, the AC coupling capacitors may berespectively provided between the secondary-side controllers 16A and 16Band the receptacles 41R, 42R.

In the PD system to which the PD device according to the embodiments canbe applied, electric charging of the battery 66 in the smartphone 160from the AC adapter/AC charger 3, and power transmission to the externaldevice from the battery 66 in the smartphone 160 can be achieved withoutreplacement of the cable, for example.

FIG. 63 shows a schematic block configuration of a PD system includingtwo units 56 and 58 each containing the PD device according to theembodiments.

The two units 56 and 58 are connected to each other by the power linePOL and the communication dedicated line COL. The power line POL and thecommunication dedicated line COL is plug-connected to the receptacles41R and 42R contained in the two units 56 and 58.

The PD devices according to the embodiments are respectively mounted inthe two units 56 and 58. In FIG. 63, illustration of the DC/DCconverters are omitted, but the secondary-side controllers 16A and 16B,are shown. Moreover, an output capacitor C_(o) is connected between thepower line POL (VBUS output) and the secondary-side controllers 16A and16B (illustration is omitted).

The unit 56 includes the AC/DC converter 60 and the secondary-sidecontroller 16A, and the unit 58 includes the secondary-side controller16B and a load 70. In the present embodiment, the load 70 can becomposed of a CPU, a battery BAT, a controller CTR, etc. Moreover, theAC coupling capacitors may be respectively provided between thesecondary-side controllers 16A and 16B and the receptacles 41R, 42R.

In the PD system to which the PD device according to the embodiments canbe applied, power transmission from the unit 56 to the unit 58, andpower transmission to external devices from the unit 58 can be achievedwithout replacement of the cable, for example.

Moreover, the secondary-side controllers 16A, 16B are respectivelyconnected to the communication dedicated lines COL, thereby realizinghalf-duplex data communications between the units 56, 58.

In the PD system to which the PD device according to the embodiments canbe applied, FIG. 64 shows a schematic block configuration composed oftwo units 56 and 58 different from the configuration shown in FIG. 63.

The unit 56 includes a battery E, a CPU 68A and the secondary-sidecontroller 16A, and the unit 58 includes a CPU 68B, the secondary-sidecontroller 16B, and a load CL.

The two units 56 and 58 are connected to each other by the power linePOL and the communication dedicated line COL. The power line POL and thecommunication dedicated line COL is plug-connected to the receptacles41R and 42R (not shown) contained in the two units 56 and 58. The powerline POL is connected between the battery E and the load CL, and thecommunication dedicated line COL is connected between the secondary-sidecontrollers 16A and 16B. Moreover, an output capacitor C_(o) isconnected between the power line POL (VBUS output) and thesecondary-side controllers 16A and 16B (illustration is omitted).Moreover, the AC coupling capacitors may be respectively providedbetween the secondary-side controllers 16A and 16B and the communicationdedicated line COL.

In the PD system to which the PD device according to the embodiments canbe applied, power transmission from the unit 58 to the unit 56, andpower transmission to the unit 58 from the battery E can be achievedwithout replacement of the cable, for example. Moreover, the half-duplexdata communications, for example, can be realized between the units 56and 58.

As shown in FIG. 65, a first PD system 100 to which the PD deviceaccording to the embodiments can be globally applied includes: a monitor110 connected to an outlet through a plug; and an external hard diskdrive 120, a set top box 180, a laptop PC 140, a tablet PC 150, and asmartphone 160 each connected to the monitor 110 using the USB PD cable.In this context, otherwise, the monitors 110 may be TV or a dockingstation.

Although the PD device 4 according to the embodiments is mounted in eachconfiguring elements, illustration of the DC/DC converter is omitted,but the secondary-side controller 16 is illustrated in FIG. 65.Moreover, an output capacitor C_(o) is connected between the power linePOL (VBUS output) and the secondary-side controller 16 (illustration isomitted). Moreover, the AC coupling capacitor may be applied to thecommunication dedicated line COL. Moreover, when applying the USB PD, aUSB PD controller may be applied to the controller 16.

Power transmission and communications data transmission can be executedusing the power line POL and the communication dedicated line COL,between the monitor 110, and the external hard disk drive 120, the settop box 180, the laptop PC 140, the tablet PC 150 and the smartphone160. The power line POL is illustrated with the thick solid line, andthe communication dedicated line COL is illustrated with the dashedline. When applying the USB PD, the power line POL may be used therefor,instead of the communication dedicated line COL illustrated with thedashed line. Moreover, the communication dedicated line COL is connectedto the secondary-side controller 16 through the AC coupling capacitor(not shown). Alternatively, the communication dedicated line COL may bedirectly connected to the secondary-side controller 16, without throughthe AC coupling capacitor.

Portions illustrated with the circular dashed-line illustrate that thecable used for the power line POL and the cable used for communicationdedicated line COL are separated. A USB PD cable can be applied to thecable for the power line POL, and a communication dedicated cable (COM)can be applied to the cable for the communication dedicated line COL.Moreover, an internal cable for changing between the power line POL andthe communication dedicated line COL may be used therefor.

The AC/DC converter 60 and the secondary-side controller 16 are mountedin the monitor 110. A CPU+interface board 122, and the secondary-sidecontroller 16 are mounted in the external hard disk drive 120. ACPU+interface board 132 and the secondary-side controller 16 are mountedin the set top box 180. A Narrow Voltage DC/DC (NVDC) charger 142, aCPU148, a Platform Controller Hub (PCH) 147, an Embedded Controller (EC)146, and the secondary-side controller 16 are mounted in the laptop PC140. An Application CPU (ACPU) 156, a battery charger IC (CHG) 158, abattery 157, and the secondary-side controller 16 are mounted in thetablet PC 150. An Application CPU (ACPU) 166, a USB charger 162, abattery 172, and the secondary-side controller 16 are mounted in asmartphone 160.

As shown in FIG. 66, a second PD system 200 to which the PD deviceaccording to the embodiments can be globally applied includes: a USB PDadapter 230 connected to an outlet through a plug; a laptop PC 140connected to the USB PD adapter 230; and an external hard disk drive120, a monitor 110, a tablet PC 150, and a smartphone 160 connected tothe laptop PC 140. In this context, otherwise, the laptop PC 140 may bea docking station.

Although the PD device 4 according to the embodiments is mounted in eachconfiguring elements, illustration of the DC/DC converter is omitted,but the secondary-side controller 16 is illustrated in FIG. 66.Moreover, an output capacitor C_(o) is connected between the power linePOL (VBUS output) and the secondary-side controller 16 (illustration isomitted). Moreover, the AC coupling capacitor may be applied to thecommunication dedicated line COL. Moreover, when applying the USB PD, aUSB PD controller may be applied to the secondary-side controller 16.

Power transmission and communications data transmission can be executedusing the power line POL and the communication dedicated line COL,between the laptop PC 140, and the USB PD adapter 230, the external harddisk drive 120, the monitor 110, the tablet PC 150 and the smartphone160.

The AC/DC converter 60 and the secondary-side controller 16 are mountedin the USB PD adapter 230. An NVDC charger 142, a CPU 148, a PCH 147, anEC 146, a battery 154, a DC/DC converter 159, and the secondary-sidecontroller 16 ₁ and 16 ₂ are mounted in the laptop PC 140. PMIC 112 andthe secondary-side controller 16 are mounted in the monitor 110. Otherconfigurations are the same as that of the first PD system 100 (FIG.65).

As shown in FIG. 67, a third PD system 300 to which the PD deviceaccording to the embodiments can be globally applied includes: a USB PDadapter/charger 310 connected to an outlet through a plug; and anexternal hard disk drive 120, a monitor 110, a set top box 180, a laptopPC 140, a tablet PC 150, and a smartphone 160 each connected to the USBPD adapter/charger 310.

Although the PD device 4 according to the embodiments is mounted in eachconfiguring elements, illustration of the DC/DC converter is omitted,but the secondary-side controller 16 is illustrated in FIG. 67.Moreover, an output capacitor C_(o) is connected between the power linePOL (VBUS output) and the secondary-side controller 16 (illustration isomitted). Moreover, the AC coupling capacitor may be applied to thecommunication dedicated line COL. Moreover, when applying the USB PD, aUSB PD controller may be applied to the secondary-side controller 16.

Power transmission and communications data transmission can be executedusing the power line POL and the communication dedicated line COL,between the USB PD adapter/charger 310, and the external hard disk drive120, the monitor 110, the set top box 180, the laptop PC 140, the tabletPC 150 and the smartphone 160.

The AC/DC converter 60 and the secondary-side controller 16 are mountedin the USB PD adapter/charger 310. Other configurations are the same asthose of the first PD system 100 (FIG. 65) and the second PD system 200(FIG. 66).

As shown in FIG. 68, a fourth PD system 400 to which the PD deviceaccording to the embodiments can be globally applied includes: ahigh-performance USB PD adapter/charger 330 connected to an outletthrough a plug; and an external hard disk drive 120, a monitor 110, aset top box 180, a laptop PC 140, a tablet PC 150, and a smartphone 160each connected to the high-performance USB PD adapter/charger 330.

Although the PD device 4 according to the embodiments is mounted in eachconfiguring elements, illustration of the DC/DC converter is omitted,but the secondary-side controller 16 is illustrated in FIG. 68.Moreover, an output capacitor C_(o) is connected between the power linePOL (VBUS output) and the secondary-side controller 16 (illustration isomitted). Moreover, the AC coupling capacitor may be applied to thecommunication dedicated line COL. Moreover, when applying the USB PD, aUSB PD controller may be applied to the secondary-side controller 16.

Power transmission and communications data transmission can be executedusing the power line POL and the communication dedicated line COL,between the high-performance USB PD adapter/charger 330, and theexternal hard disk drive 120, the monitor 110, the set top box 180, thelaptop PC 140, the tablet PC 150 and the smartphone 160.

The AC/DC converter 60A including a synchronous FET switching converter,and the secondary-side controller 16 are mounted in the high-performanceUSB PD adapter/charger 330. Other configurations are the same as that ofthe third PD system 300 (FIG. 67).

FIG. 69 shows a schematic block configuration having a configuration inwhich the controller 16 is contained in a CPU+interface board 122 (132),in the PD system to which the PD device according to the embodiments canbe applied. More specifically, in the PD systems 100 to 400 respectivelyshown in FIGS. 65 to 68, the controller 16 may be contained in aCPU+interface board 122 (132). In this case, the power line POL and thecommunication dedicated line COL are used for the CPU+interface board122, and thereby electric power and communications data can betransmitted. A chip in which the controller 16 is contained in such aCPU+interface board 122 (132) can also be configured as an integratedchip with a CPU including a controller, a DSP, and another controller.

As explained above, according to the embodiments, there can be providedthe PD device, the AC adapter, the AC charger, the electronic apparatus,and the PD system, each capable of switching with respect to theplurality of the apparatuses, and each capable of controlling the outputvoltage value and the available output current value (MAX value).

Other Embodiments

As explained above, the embodiments have been described, as a disclosureincluding associated description and drawings to be construed asillustrative, not restrictive. This disclosure makes clear a variety ofalternative embodiments, working examples, and operational techniquesfor those skilled in the art.

Such being the case, the embodiments cover a variety of embodiments andthe like, whether described or not.

INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY

The PD device, the AC adapter, the electronic apparatus, and the PDsystem according to the embodiments are applicable to electricalhousehold appliances and electrical equipment, mobile computing devices,etc.

What is claimed is:
 1. A power delivery device comprising: a DC/DCconverter disposed between an input and a VBUS output; a primary-sidecontroller configured to control an input current of the DC/DCconverter; and a secondary-side controller coupled to a plurality ofcontrol inputs, the secondary-side controller configured to executed asignal conversion of control input signals of the plurality of thecontrol inputs, and configured to feed back the control input signalssubjected to the signal conversion to the primary-side controller,wherein the primary-side controller varies an output voltage value andan available output current value of the DC/DC converter by controllingthe input current on the basis of the control input signal fed back fromthe secondary-side controller.
 2. The power delivery device according toclaim 1, further comprising: an output capacitor configured to couplethe secondary-side controller and the VBUS output to each other.
 3. Thepower delivery device according to claim 1, further comprising: an ACcoupling capacitor configured to couple the secondary-side controllerand the control input to each other.
 4. The power delivery deviceaccording to claim 1, wherein the secondary-side controller can furtherexecute a signal conversion of an AC signal component of the VBUSoutput.
 5. The power delivery device according to claim 1, wherein thesecondary-side controller is coupled to a plurality of control inputs,and can execute signal conversion and switching of the control inputsignals of the plurality of the control inputs.
 6. The power deliverydevice according to claim 1, further comprising: a power output circuitconnected to the primary-side controller, the power output circuitconfigured to supply output voltages to a plurality of VBUS outputsdisposed in pairs with the plurality of the control inputs.
 7. The powerdelivery device according to claim 6, wherein the power output circuitcomprises a plurality of DC/DC converters.
 8. A power delivery devicecomprising: a DC/DC converter disposed between an input and a VBUSoutput; a primary-side controller configured to control an input currentof the DC/DC converter; a secondary-side controller coupled to a controlinput, the secondary-side controller configured to executed a signalconversion of a control input signal of the control input, andconfigured to feed back the control input signal subjected to the signalconversion to the primary-side controller; and an output capacitorconfigured to couple the secondary-side controller and the VBUS outputto each other, wherein the primary-side controller varies an outputvoltage value and an available output current value of the DC/DCconverter by controlling the input current on the basis of the controlinput signal fed back from the secondary-side controller.
 9. The powerdelivery device according to claim 8, wherein the secondary-sidecontroller comprises a first communication circuit and a secondcommunication circuit.
 10. The power delivery device according to claim9, wherein the output capacitor is connected between the firstcommunication circuit and the VBUS output.
 11. The power delivery deviceaccording to claim 9, wherein the first communication circuit comprisesa protocol conversion unit configured to execute a frequency conversion,and the second communication circuit comprises a communication circuitdisposed between the protocol conversion unit and the control input, thecommunication circuit configured to execute a code conversion.
 12. Thepower delivery device according to claim 11, wherein the secondary-sidecontroller comprises a switch configured to selects between the outputcapacitor and the control input.
 13. The power delivery device accordingto claim 11, wherein the secondary-side controller comprises: a firsttransceiver connected to the output capacitor; and a switch controlledby the secondary-side controller, the switch configured to selectbetween the first transceiver and the control input.
 14. The powerdelivery device according to claim 11, wherein: the secondary-sidecontroller comprises a first transceiver configured to selects betweenthe output capacitor and the control input.
 15. The power deliverydevice according to claim 11, wherein the secondary-side controllercomprises: a first transceiver connected to the output capacitor; asecond transceiver connected to the control input; and a switchconfigured to select between the first transceiver and the secondtransceiver.
 16. The power delivery device according to claim 11,wherein the secondary-side controller comprises: a first transceiverconnected to the output capacitor; a plurality of second transceiversrespectively connected to a plurality of the control inputs; and aswitch configured to select between the first transceiver and theplurality of the second transceivers.
 17. An AC adapter comprising thepower delivery device according to claim
 1. 18. An AC charger comprisingthe power delivery device according to claim
 1. 19. An electronicapparatus comprising the power delivery device according to claim
 1. 20.A power delivery system comprising a power delivery device, the powerdelivery device comprising: a DC/DC converter disposed between an inputand a VBUS output; a primary-side controller configured to control aninput current of the DC/DC converter; and a secondary-side controllercoupled to a plurality of control inputs, the secondary-side controllerconfigured to executed a signal conversion of control input signals ofthe plurality of the control inputs, and configured to feed back thecontrol input signals subjected to the signal conversion to theprimary-side controller, wherein the primary-side controller varies anoutput voltage value and an available output current value of the DC/DCconverter by controlling the input current on the basis of the controlinput signal fed back from the secondary-side controller.